Disgustingly Delicious Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Cook it!

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Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Just saying it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, doesn’t it? I swear, this dish is like a hug in a baking dish! I remember coming home from school and the smell of this bubbling away in the oven… Mom’s version was legendary. This is my spin—a simplified, even more flavorful take on that classic comfort food. Imagine layers of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and ooey-gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate easy cheesy hamburger casserole recipe for busy weeknights, and trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone running to the table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

It’s packed with rich, comforting flavors that’ll remind you of childhood. Seriously, that cheesy goodness is hard to beat!
This ground beef casserole is ready in under an hour, making it perfect for those crazy weeknights.
It uses simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Talk about budget-friendly!
It’s a guaranteed family favorite. Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this pasta casserole.
It’s super easy to customize with your favorite veggies. Sneak in some spinach or bell peppers—no one will even notice!
It’s the perfect easy dinner for a quick weeknight meal. Just pop it in the oven and relax.
Minimal cleanup required. One dish means less time washing up and more time relaxing.
It’s great for meal prepping. Make it on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers all week long!

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

1 pound lean ground beef: I always go for lean—it gives you great flavor without all the extra grease. You could sub with ground turkey if you’re feeling adventurous!
1 pound elbow macaroni: Elbows are classic for a reason! They grab all that cheesy sauce. But honestly, any small pasta will work in this pasta casserole.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives it that classic, tangy flavor. Pre-shredded is fine, but freshly grated melts even better!
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The mozzarella adds that gooey, melty goodness that makes this ground beef casserole so irresistible.
1 medium onion, diced: Diced finely, the onion adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the savory base.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a MUST. It brings a pungent aroma and flavor that really elevates the whole dish.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: The tomatoes add moisture, a little tang, and help create that delicious sauce. Don’t drain them—you want that juice!
1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key! Adjust to your taste, of course.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always my preference for the best flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian herbs: This blend adds that classic Italian flavor we all know and love. I usually use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred): The beef broth adds richness and helps cook the pasta right in the casserole. Low sodium lets you control the saltiness.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to getting that golden, bubbly top we all crave!
Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
Step 3: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Trust me, that aroma will be amazing – it’s the foundation of all good comfort food!
Step 4: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (with their juice!), and beef broth. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. This is where it all starts coming together!
Step 5: Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Don’t be shy! Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly. I always give it a little taste at this point to make sure the flavors are on point.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking – nobody likes burnt pasta at the bottom!
Step 7: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Oh, that cheesy goodness is just irresistible!
Step 8: Transfer the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for even cooking.
Step 9: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This is what creates that beautiful, golden, cheesy crust!
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it – you want it perfectly melted, not burnt! Let it rest for a few minutes before serving – it helps the flavors meld together.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Want to take your cheesy hamburger casserole to the next level? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years. First, don’t overcook the macaroni – slightly underdone is perfect since it’ll continue cooking in the oven. Second, use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor – I love adding a little Gruyere or Monterey Jack. Finally, let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the cheese set and prevents a soupy mess. Trust me, these little tweaks make a HUGE difference!

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?

It’s all about layering flavors! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings in your ground beef mixture. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a surprising depth of flavor to this easy ground beef casserole. And remember, quality ingredients always shine through!

Can I make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This pasta casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Assemble the entire casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats, and then bake as directed. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven since it’s starting cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?

One of the biggest pitfalls is ending up with a dry casserole. Make sure you have enough liquid (beef broth and tomato juice) to cook the pasta properly. Another common mistake is overbaking, which can make the cheese tough and rubbery. Keep a close eye on it in the oven, and remove it as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly!

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

This cheesy and comforting ground beef casserole is a star on its own, but a few simple additions can really elevate the meal! I love serving it straight from the oven, all bubbly and golden, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bake. For an extra cozy touch, try pairing this family-friendly pasta casserole with some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck with friends!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough breakdown of what you’re looking at per serving of this delicious cheesy hamburger casserole:

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g

Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g

Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 700mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keep in mind, this is an estimate and may vary a little depending on the exact ingredients you use. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Got leftovers of this amazing cheesy hamburger casserole? Lucky you! To store it, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. When reheating from the fridge, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. From frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick and easy lunch, but be careful not to overcook it – nobody likes rubbery cheese!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Got questions about this classic dish? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get about making the best cheesy hamburger casserole ever.

Can I use different types of cheese in my casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are a classic combo for this pasta casserole, feel free to experiment. Try Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, Gruyere for a nutty flavor, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty kick. Just remember that some cheeses melt better than others, so stick to varieties known for their gooeyness. And hey, what about pepper jack for a little spice? The possibilities are endless!

What kind of ground beef is best for this recipe?

I usually opt for lean ground beef (around 90/10) to minimize grease, but honestly, whatever you have on hand will work. If you’re using a fattier ground beef, just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning. You could even use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist on this cheesy hamburger casserole. Does the type of ground beef change the cooking time? Nope! The timing stays the same.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! This ground beef casserole is super versatile. Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for added nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients. Want a sweeter casserole? Throw in some corn or peas! This is a great way to use up leftover veggies from the fridge.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Sure thing! Simply swap out the regular elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are tons of great gluten-free pastas available these days that hold up really well in baked dishes. Make sure to check the cooking time on the package, as it may differ from regular pasta. Other than that, the recipe stays exactly the same. Enjoy your gluten-free cheesy hamburger casserole!

Variations of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole You Can Try

Want to mix things up with your cheesy hamburger casserole? Here are a few fun variations to try, whether you’re looking for a healthier twist, catering to dietary needs, or just want to experiment with new flavors!

Vegan: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tempeh. Use a vegan cheese substitute and a plant-based milk to keep it creamy.
Gluten-Free: Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta! There are tons of great options available now that work perfectly in this ground beef casserole.
Spicy: Add a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for a kick. You could even use pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of heat!
Mediterranean: Use ground lamb instead of beef, and add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired twist on this pasta casserole.

Disgustingly Delicious Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Cook it!

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Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting and delicious Cheesy Hamburger Casserole featuring ground beef, pasta, cheese, and aromatic seasonings.

Ingredients

Ground Beef: Lean ground beef for best flavor.
Pasta: Elbow macaroni for holding cheese and sauce.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella for gooey goodness.
Onion: Diced onions for sweetness and depth.
Garlic: Fresh garlic for enhanced flavor.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes for moisture and tanginess.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs for flavor elevation.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and moisture.

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Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and finely chop onions and garlic.
Sauté the Beef and Veggies: Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Pasta and Tomatoes: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, canned tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Mix well.
Season Everything Up!: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; stir until combined. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
Add Cheese Galore!: Remove from heat and fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and bubbly.