This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and cozy dish that everyone loves! It’s packed with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. Perfect for dinners!
It’s so easy to make—I just cook the meat, mix it with my favorite pasta and cheese, and bake. It’s like a big hug on a plate! Plus, leftovers are great for lunch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are the base of the casserole and soak up all the flavors. If you don’t have egg noodles, any pasta like rotini or penne can work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
Ground Beef: This provides the protein and flavor. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, crumbled tofu or lentils could make a great substitute!
Onion: While optional, onions add a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t like onions or don’t have any, you can easily skip them or use onion powder instead.
Tomato Sauce: This gives moisture to the dish. You can also use marinara sauce or diced tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture. Crushed tomatoes work well too for a richer sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: I always use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. You could replace it with mozzarella for a milder taste, or use a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
How Do I Get the Cheese on Top Just Right?
Getting that melted, bubbly cheese on top is key for this casserole! Here are a few tips:
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged. It melts better!
- Make sure to sprinkle cheese evenly over the top to ensure it melts uniformly.
- Keep an eye on it while baking. If the cheese starts browning too fast, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set up and makes serving easier!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake, bringing the total time to around 40-45 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that will satisfy the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter.
2. Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they’re ready, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
While your noodles are cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion (if you’re using it). Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Afterward, drain any extra grease from the pan.
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning (or oregano), and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
5. Combine Everything:
Take a large mixing bowl and combine the cooked noodles, ground beef mixture, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and the milk. Stir everything together until well mixed and the cheese starts to melt into the mixture.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the noodle and beef mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that delicious melty layer.
7. Bake it Up:
Place your casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is beautifully melted and bubbly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cheesy casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or your favorite veggies. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles work great, you can use any pasta you like, such as rotini, shell pasta, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, ensuring it’s cooked to al dente.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
If you want a healthier twist, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add in extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to keep it creamy while reheating!
