This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and comforting dish made with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese! It’s a one-pan wonder that will make dinner a breeze.
You’ll love how quickly this comes together. I often make it when I need a simple meal the whole family will enjoy. Plus, who can resist cheese? Not me! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef for this dish, as it offers good flavor and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works too, just keep in mind it might not be as juicy.
Onion and Garlic: A small onion and two cloves lend great flavor. You could swap the onion for shallots or omit them entirely if you’re not a fan of strong onion taste. Garlic powder can replace fresh garlic in a pinch.
Egg Noodles: These are perfect for this casserole. If you’re looking for a substitute, try rotini or penne pasta. Just adjust the cooking time since different pasta types can cook differently.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack can add some nice flavors.
Sour Cream: This is optional but adds creaminess. If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt or cream cheese can be a great alternative.
How Do I Cook the Hamburger Without Overcooking It?
Cooking the ground beef just right is key for a tasty casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a hot skillet, which helps to brown the meat evenly.
- Cook the beef until it’s mostly browned but still slightly pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Adding the onions and garlic at this point allows their flavors to mix in without burning.
- Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
This method ensures your beef stays juicy and flavorful, making the casserole even better!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups egg noodles, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
Time Estimate:
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in about 1 hour! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it starts to brown. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the onion softens and the beef is fully browned. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld together.
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the uncooked egg noodles, the beef mixture, water, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re using sour cream for added creaminess, mix it in now. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover your dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to cool. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, hearty hamburger casserole with your family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to season it well since it has a milder flavor than beef. You may want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just ensure that the rest of the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly too!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Store them in an airtight container, and they should be good for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a bit of moisture with water or broth if needed.
How Can I Spice This Up?
If you like a kick of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or even a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef mixture. Garnishing each serving with some hot sauce can also add a delightful zing!
