This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! With ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese, it’s a family favorite that fills the tummy and warms the heart.
I love how this dish is super simple to make. Just cook the beef, mix in the pasta, and top it with cheese. In no time, you’ll have a cheesy goodness that everyone will devour!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well. Vegetarian ground meat can also be a great substitute!
Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles give a great texture, but you can easily swap them for spiral pasta, penne, or even whole wheat noodles if you prefer. Gluten-free pasta is also available if needed.
Spaghetti Sauce: I like to use a jarred spaghetti sauce for convenience, but homemade sauce is even better! You can use marinara or meat sauce if that’s what you have on hand—adjust the spice level to your taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a lovely sharp flavor. Feel free to mix it with mozzarella or pepper jack for extra creaminess and spice. Vegan cheese is a good choice if you want a dairy-free option.
Onion & Garlic: They add a nice depth of flavor, but they’re optional. If you’re short on time, you can skip them or use onion powder and garlic powder instead.
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Has the Right Texture?
Getting the perfect texture in your casserole is key! The noodles should be al dente since they’ll cook further in the oven. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole is perfect:
- Cook the egg noodles just a minute or two less than the package suggests to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- When mixing the beef and sauce, make sure to combine well without overdoing it, as this keeps the layers light.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve.
With these simple steps and options, you’re ready to whip up a delicious and cheesy hamburger casserole everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles (about 4 cups uncooked)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) spaghetti sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (if using onion and garlic)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 25 minutes to bake. With a total time of around 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready for your casserole as soon as you assemble it!
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
While the oven is heating up, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This means they’ll be firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. If you’re using the optional onion and garlic, add the chopped onion first and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. If there’s excess fat, be sure to drain it.
5. Season and Add Sauce:
Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together.
6. Combine with Noodles:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles and half of the beef and sauce mixture. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Then, pour the remaining beef and sauce mixture over the top.
8. Add Cheddar Cheese:
Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. This will give you that melty, cheesy goodness!
9. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The delicious smell will fill your kitchen!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to make cutting easier.
Enjoy your warm, comforting, and cheesy hamburger casserole! It’s perfect for dinner and sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it until it’s browned thoroughly, following the same steps as you would with beef.
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic to soften them before combining with the noodles.
