This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that the whole family will love! It’s packed with ground beef, pasta, and lots of melty cheese—yum!
You might be tempted to make this your go-to weeknight dinner. I know I do! Just mix everything, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness without any fuss. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work well too! They provide a lighter flavor while keeping it tasty.
Pasta: I like using egg noodles for their chewy texture. However, you can use any pasta you have on hand—penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini will all work great!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice for its melting quality. If you prefer something milder, use Monterey Jack, or for a bit of a kick, try pepper jack. You could also go for a blend of cheeses for more flavor.
Sour Cream: If you’re dairy-free, coconut yogurt is a tasty substitute. Plain Greek yogurt works as a tangy alternative too!
How Do You Prevent a Soggy Casserole?
Texture is key in casseroles! To keep your hamburger casserole from getting too soggy, follow these tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta—aim for al dente, so it holds its shape and doesn’t absorb too much sauce.
- Drain the ground beef well to remove excess grease that could make the casserole watery.
- Avoid too much liquid from the tomato sauce and sour cream; if it’s very saucy, balance it by reducing the added milk or sour cream.
By balancing these elements, you’ll keep your casserole perfectly hearty and delicious! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles or any pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. Make sure to set aside a total of about 45-50 minutes to prepare and enjoy this cozy dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for when the casserole goes in. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta (egg noodles or any other type) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Brown the Beef:
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, along with the chopped onion and minced garlic if you’re using them. Cook the beef until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Combine the Sauces:
To the skillet with the beef, stir in the tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and ketchup if you like. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, mixing everything together for all the flavors to merge.
5. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, the beef mixture, sour cream, milk, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything until well combined.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure each bite is delicious and cheesy! Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake and Serve:
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for bubbly, melted cheese on top. Once it looks good, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy hamburger casserole as a delicious and filling family meal! It’s sure to be a hit around the dinner table! 😊
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the fat content. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture during cooking to avoid a watery casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead! Just store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also add a little sprinkle of cheese on top when reheating for extra melty goodness!
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Definitely! If you don’t have egg noodles, any pasta shape will work great. For a lower-carb option, consider using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
