Amazing Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

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Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole has become my absolute go-to for busy weeknights, and I think you’re going to love it too! I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was desperately searching for a quick and easy dinner that my whole family would devour. The aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes – that savory beef mixed with the cheesy, garlicky biscuit topping – is pure comfort. It’s like a hug in a dish, reminiscent of those famous cheesy biscuits everyone raves about. This Cheesy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole truly is a lifesaver. Ready to make dinner magic? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This recipe is a weeknight superhero, and here’s why:

Unbeatable Flavor: Savory ground beef meets a creamy, cheesy sauce, all crowned with those irresistible, fluffy Cheddar Bay biscuits.
Incredibly Easy: It’s a true one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup so you can spend more time with your family.
Family Approved: Even the pickiest eaters will adore this Cheesy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole.
Comfort Food Central: This is pure, unadulterated comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
Quick Prep: You can have this Easy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole ready to bake in under 30 minutes.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different veggies or cheeses to suit your taste.
Impressive Results: It looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but it’s surprisingly simple.

Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing Cheddar Bay Biscuit Hamburger Casserole Recipe. I love that most of these are pantry staples!

2 lbs ground beef (80/20) – the fat content adds incredible flavor and moisture to the base
1 large onion, diced – for a sweet aromatic base
2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that savory punch
1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix – a secret weapon for deep flavor
1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup – creates a wonderfully creamy sauce
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – adds color, texture, and nutrients
1 cup beef broth – helps create a luscious sauce consistency
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – for that umami depth
1 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors
1/2 tsp black pepper – a classic pairing with beef
For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping:
2 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our fluffy biscuits
1 tbsp baking powder – for that essential lift
1 tbsp granulated sugar – balances the savory notes
1 tsp garlic powder – key for that signature Cheddar Bay flavor
1 tsp dried parsley flakes – adds a touch of freshness and color
1/2 tsp salt – seasoning for the biscuits
1/2 tsp onion powder – more savory goodness
1 1/3 cups buttermilk – makes the biscuits tender and tangy
1/2 cup butter, melted – adds richness and helps bind the dough
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – the star of the show for that cheesy biscuit topping
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
4 tbsp butter, melted – for brushing on top
2 cloves garlic, minced – for a garlicky kick
1/2 tsp dried parsley flakes – for visual appeal
1/4 tsp garlic powder – extra garlic flavor!

How to Make Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This Hamburger Cheddar Bay Casserole Recipe comes together so easily, making it a weeknight dream. Follow these simple steps for a delicious family dinner!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures nothing sticks and makes cleanup a breeze for this amazing Cheddar Bay Hamburger Skillet Casserole.
Step 2: Grab a large skillet and brown the 2 lbs ground beef over medium-high heat. Once it’s nicely browned, add the diced onion and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Now, let’s build that flavorful base! Stir in the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. The aroma at this stage is incredible! Once thickened, transfer this hearty mixture to your prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Time for the star topping! In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, garlic powder, parsley flakes, salt, and onion powder. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined – don’t overmix! Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit mixture evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish. This is where it really starts to look like a Cheesy Ground Beef Biscuit Casserole! Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the biscuits.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the biscuit topping to be beautifully golden brown and cooked all the way through. The cheese should be bubbly and irresistible.
Step 7: While the casserole bakes, quickly whip up the garlic butter topping. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic, parsley flakes, and garlic powder. As soon as the casserole comes out of the oven, brush this delicious garlic butter generously over the hot biscuit tops.
Step 8: Let your amazing Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy this comforting one-pan meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Want to elevate your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Hamburger Casserole? These little tricks make all the difference for a truly outstanding meal.

Don’t skip the garlic butter topping; it adds that signature restaurant-style finish and keeps the biscuits moist.
For an even richer flavor in the base, use a good quality beef broth and don’t be afraid to add a pinch more salt and pepper to taste.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F. A hot oven is crucial for getting those biscuits perfectly golden brown and fluffy on top of your Cheesy Biscuit Hamburger Casserole.
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the biscuit dough or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole?

The magic lies in the balance of savory beef and the tangy, cheesy biscuit topping. Using buttermilk in the biscuit dough is key for tenderness, and that final garlic butter brush adds an irresistible aroma and flavor. For more tips on baking, check out these baking tips.

Can I make Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and the biscuit dough separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, assemble and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole?

A common pitfall is an undercooked biscuit topping. Make sure your oven is at the correct temperature and bake until golden brown. Also, avoid overmixing the biscuit dough; a few lumps are perfectly fine and lead to a better texture for your Hamburger Cheddar Bay Casserole Recipe. Learn more about common baking mistakes.

Best Ways to Serve Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This hearty Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides to round out your dinner. I love serving it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed broccoli or tender green beans are also fantastic complements, adding a nice pop of color and freshness. For those who enjoy a bit more, a side of garlic bread is always a welcome addition, especially if you’re a fan of that garlicky goodness that makes this Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole so special. You can find great side dish ideas here.

Nutrition Facts for Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Bake is a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (this recipe makes 8 servings):

Calories: Estimated 650 kcal
Fat: Estimated 40g
Saturated Fat: Estimated 18g
Unsaturated Fat: Estimated 22g
Trans Fat: Estimated 1g
Carbohydrates: Estimated 45g
Fiber: Estimated 3g
Sugar: Estimated 6g
Protein: Estimated 30g
Sodium: Estimated 1200mg
Cholesterol: Estimated 120mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Cheesy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole. For more information on understanding nutrition labels, see this FDA guide.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is fantastic for leftovers, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Once it has cooled down a bit, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea! If you want to keep this delicious meal longer, you can freeze it. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. This Cheddar Bay Biscuit Casserole with Ground Beef reheats beautifully!

To reheat, simply place refrigerated portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or bake in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Frozen portions will need a bit longer; thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the same methods. Enjoy your tasty Cheesy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole all over again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Can I use different types of ground meat in this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Bake?

Yes, you absolutely can! While ground beef is classic, I’ve found that ground turkey or even ground chicken works wonderfully in this Cheesy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole. Just be mindful that leaner meats might require a touch more broth or a splash of oil to keep the base from drying out. It’s still a fantastic option for a family dinner! For more on choosing the right meat, check out these meat selection tips.

What kind of biscuits can I use if I don’t want to make them from scratch?

I totally get it – sometimes you need a shortcut! For an even quicker Easy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole, you can use a can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Just separate the biscuits, cut them into quarters, and place them over the beef mixture. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on them until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

How do I make this a spicy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole?

If you love a little heat, this recipe is a great base for that! For a spicy kick in your Cheddar Bay Biscuit Hamburger Casserole Recipe, I recommend adding some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture along with the onions. You could also stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For an extra layer of heat, try using pepper jack cheese in both the biscuit topping and sprinkled on top!

Can this casserole be made vegetarian?

While this specific recipe is designed around ground beef, you can definitely adapt it to be vegetarian. For a hearty Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Cheddar Bay Biscuits-style dish without the meat, try using lentils, crumbled firm tofu, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You’ll want to ensure your base has enough moisture and flavor, so you might need to adjust the amount of broth and seasonings. The cheesy biscuit topping will still be amazing!

Variations of Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole You Can Try

This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different twists. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

Spicy Cheddar Bay Hamburger Bake: For those who like a little heat, stir in a diced jalapeño or two into the beef mixture along with the onions. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Turkey Cheddar Bay Biscuit Hamburger Casserole: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a slightly lighter version. It still delivers that comforting flavor profile that makes this a great Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole for families.
Cheesy Ground Beef Biscuit Casserole with Veggies: Amp up the vegetables by adding some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even corn directly into the beef mixture. This makes for an even more satisfying and colorful meal.
Skillet Cheddar Bay Casserole: If you’re looking for a true one-pan wonder, consider making this as a Cheddar Bay Hamburger Skillet Casserole. Brown the beef and cook the base directly in an oven-safe skillet, then top with the biscuits and bake.