This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy nights. It brings together ground beef, pasta, and lots of cheese for a warm, comforting meal!
It’s like a big hug in a dish! I love how you can just throw it all in one pot and let it bake. And who can resist that gooey cheese on top? Perfect for leftovers too! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein and adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well as substitutes. Plant-based crumbles are also a great vegan alternative!
Egg Noodles: This recipe uses egg noodles for a soft texture. You can use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta if needed. Or try rotini or penne for a fun shape!
Cheese: Cheddar gives a rich flavor, but you can mix it up! Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can be delicious too. If you want a dairy-free option, there are plant-based cheeses available that melt nicely.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: These provide moisture and flavor. If you’re avoiding canned products, you can use fresh tomatoes and make your sauce. It’s all about getting that juicy base!
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly?
To nail this casserole, the key is in the layering and baking:
- Start by browning the beef well. This builds flavor, so make sure it gets a nice sear.
- Cooking the noodles al dente is important; they’ll soak up some sauce as they bake, preventing mushiness.
- Layering with cheese not only adds flavor but also helps hold everything together. Use enough cheese to get that pull when you serve!
- Bake until bubbly and golden, but let it rest afterward. This settling time helps the layers firm up so it holds shape when served.
Following these steps will make your casserole a hit every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles (or similar pasta)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
Time Needed:
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 45-50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it to keep everything from sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. This means they should still have a little bite to them. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat until it’s browned. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to prevent a greasy casserole.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté them together until the onions become soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
5. Mix in the Sauces:
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Combine Noodles and Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and add the cooked noodles to the meat sauce. Gently stir until everything is well mixed.
7. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the noodle and beef mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this layer.
8. Add Remaining Layers:
Next, add the rest of the noodle and beef mixture on top, followed by the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. If you want to amp up the cheesiness, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top as well!
9. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. You’ll know it’s done when it looks irresistible!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps everything set a bit. Scoop out portions and enjoy your hearty, cheesy hamburger casserole!
This delightful casserole combines comfort and flavor, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
FAQ About Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a leaner protein option. Just use the same amount and follow the preparation steps as outlined in the recipe.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can use other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble it completely, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
