This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that everyone loves! It’s loaded with ground beef, pasta, and plenty of gooey cheese, all baked to perfection.
You can whip this up on a busy weeknight, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies too! I often serve it with a side salad—makes me feel a little fancy! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: The star of this dish! Egg noodles hold the sauce and cheese well. If you don’t have them, you can swap them with any pasta, like rotini or penne. Just cook according to package directions.
Ground Beef: I prefer 80/20 ground beef for the right mix of flavor and juiciness. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbles.
Onion & Garlic: These add flavor, but you can skip the onion if you’re not a fan. Instead, try using onion powder. For garlic, minced garlic powder can work in a pinch! Fresh garlic, of course, gives the best taste.
Cheddar Cheese: A must for that cheesy goodness! While I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, mild cheddar or a cheese blend can also work. For a unique twist, try pepper jack cheese for some heat.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Perfectly Layered?
Layering is key to a great casserole! Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your cooked noodles with the beef mixture to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Start with half of the noodle-beef mix in the baking dish for a solid bottom layer.
- Sprinkle cheese in between layers; it helps hold the casserole together.
- Top with cheese to get that nice bubbly crust everyone loves!
By following these steps, your casserole will be well-balanced with flavors and textures, making it a hit at dinner time! Enjoy! 😊
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the casserole as soon as it’s assembled.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente (not too soft). Once done, drain them and set them aside while you prepare the beef mixture.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Remember to drain any excess fat from the skillet!
4. Add Garlic and Sauces:
Add the minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (including the liquid). Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.
5. Combine with Noodles:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef-tomato mixture. Stir well to make sure all the noodles are coated in that delicious sauce.
6. Layer the Casserole:
Transfer half of that noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over this layer. Then, add the rest of the noodle mixture on top and finish by sprinkling the remaining cheddar cheese. If you want, sprinkle on mozzarella and Parmesan for a cheesier casserole!
7. Bake and Enjoy:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy hamburger casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with any pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave it in individual servings until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the beef and onions before adding the sauces.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Dish?
Certainly! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a meatless crumble. Use the same amount of cooked lentils or beans and follow the same method for assembling the casserole. Adjust the seasonings as needed to enhance the flavors!
