This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish layered with ground beef, pasta, and melty cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? I love serving it with a side of salad for a bit of crunch. Plus, it comes together so quickly—great for busy evenings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish, providing rich flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or even a plant-based ground meat if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Onion and Garlic: These ingredients add a wonderful base flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder are decent substitutes. Just use about 1 teaspoon of each.
Tomato Sauce: The sauce brings moisture and tang. If you don’t have canned tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes work too. Just adjust the seasoning since canned versions vary in flavor.
Pasta: While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta like macaroni, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just remember to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness in the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its flavor. However, feel free to replace it with mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different taste. Mixing in some cream cheese can also add creaminess!
How to Sauté Onions and Garlic Perfectly?
Sautéing onions and garlic is all about bringing out their flavors without burning them. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat so they get soft and sweet, not brown too fast.
- Add a pinch of salt while cooking, as it helps to draw moisture out.
- Keep stirring! This ensures they cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
- When the onions become translucent and smell sweet (about 3-4 minutes), you’re ready to add the ground beef.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce or tomato paste (optional for richer base)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Time Needed:
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole will take about 15-20 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. All in all, you’re looking at around 1 hour from start to finish, including some time for mixing and assembling. Great for a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This means they should be cooked but still firm to the bite! Drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or butter and let it warm up. Then, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are fragrant and the onions look translucent.
4. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned all over. If there’s any excess grease, feel free to drain it off to keep your casserole from being too oily.
5. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce(s), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can mingle and become deliciously combined.
6. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, meat sauce, and milk. Stir everything together until the noodles are well coated in that tasty sauce!
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your noodle and meat mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top—it’s gonna be cheesy and wonderful!
8. Bake It!
Put the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. It should look irresistible!
9. Add Final Touches:
When done, take it out of the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will help everything settle a bit before you dive in.
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy hamburger casserole with your favorite side salad or some crusty bread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great lighter alternative. Just be aware that the flavor may be slightly different, so you might want to adjust seasonings to your taste.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole the day before! Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as usual.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add cooked veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them alongside the onions and garlic for best results!
