Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

why make this recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the deliciousness of cheese, pasta, and beef. It’s a great choice for busy weeknights because it is simple to prepare and only requires one baking dish. This recipe is perfect for families, as it feeds a crowd without a lot of fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy meal that’s ready in a flash?

how to make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian herbs

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (juice included), and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
5. Fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted.
6. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

how to serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Serve the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole hot right out of the oven. Scooping it onto plates or into bowls works well. You can add a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs nicely with garlic bread for an extra treat!

how to store Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it well before freezing.

tips to make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

• Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content in the dish.
• Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied flavors.

variation

You can make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Additionally, swap the elbow macaroni for whole grain or gluten-free pasta if needed.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

What can I do with leftover casserole?
Leftover Cheesy Hamburger Casserole makes for great lunches. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape like shells, penne, or rotini based on your preference.

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

A comforting dish that combines cheese, pasta, and beef in one simple casserole, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• 2 cups elbow macaroni You can swap this for whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Try using different types of cheese for varied flavors.
• 1 cup diced onion For additional flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) Enhances the overall flavor.
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice) Add juice for extra moisture.
• 1 cup beef broth To add flavor and moisture.
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian herbs Flavor enhancer.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.

Cooking

1. Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (juice included), and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
3. Fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted.

Baking

1. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Pairs well with garlic bread for an extra treat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.