This Hamburger Casserole brings all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger into a delicious, easy-to-make casserole. The rich beef, aromatic spices, and gooey cheese melt together in perfect harmony. It’s like a warm hug in a dish, ideal for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner.
Not only is this casserole simple to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. The hearty beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese provide a satisfying meal in every bite. It’s the perfect dish to serve when you want something that’s filling, flavorful, and easy to make, with minimal cleanup.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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1/4 cup beef broth
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 1/2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or any small pasta)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef, and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and mix until combined.
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Pour the beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
What Makes Hamburger Casserole So Special?
Hamburger Casserole stands out for its versatility and comforting qualities. It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it perfect for busy families. The combination of ground beef and pasta forms the base of this casserole, with added ingredients such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and a mix of cheeses elevating the flavor. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole is sure to please.
Choosing the Right Meat and Ingredients
One of the standout features of this casserole is its adaptability. Ground beef is the traditional choice, providing rich flavor and texture. However, for those looking to reduce fat content or cater to specific dietary preferences, ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swapping out the meat for black beans, kidney beans, or plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat works wonderfully.
The choice of pasta is another important element. Small pastas, such as shell or elbow macaroni, hold up well and absorb the flavors of the sauce, while larger pasta shapes like spaghetti may not be ideal. Cream cheese, sour cream, and butter combine to create a smooth, creamy base for the casserole, ensuring it’s rich and satisfying. Meanwhile, the addition of Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning infuses the dish with an irresistible savory depth.
A Cheesy Delight
Cheese is one of the stars of this casserole. A mixture of freshly shredded cheddar and mozzarella adds both flavor and texture. As it bakes, the cheese melts into the casserole, forming a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible. For those who love extra cheese, feel free to increase the amount or swap in other cheese varieties, such as gouda, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan.
How to Make Hamburger Casserole Ahead of Time
One of the best things about Hamburger Casserole is that it can easily be made ahead of time. After preparing the casserole through the layering process, simply cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, and it will be hot and ready in no time. This makes it a great option for busy families or when hosting guests.
Making the Dish Your Own
While the classic Hamburger Casserole recipe is a fan favorite, there’s plenty of room for customization. You can sneak in extra veggies to make the dish even more nutritious. Adding mushrooms, carrots, or spinach will not only boost the flavor but also increase the health benefits. For a twist, consider using potatoes instead of pasta, creating a unique variation that’s just as delicious.
Perfect for Leftovers
Hamburger Casserole is a dish that tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Reheating is simple—just pop the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until warmed through. For an extra touch, you can broil the cheese for 1-2 minutes to get that crisp, golden finish.
Pairing Your Hamburger Casserole
While this casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables such as brown sugar glazed carrots, crispy baked green beans, or creamy garlic mushrooms for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables would make the perfect sidekick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hamburger Casserole isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. It’s a comfort food classic that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it the perfect choice for families or anyone craving a filling meal. The combination of beef, pasta, cheese, and savory spices guarantees that every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing a meal for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to please.
Conclusion: A Meal for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Hamburger Casserole is a reliable choice. Its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and deliciously cheesy result make it a meal that everyone will love. Plus, with the option to make it ahead of time or adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, it’s a dish that’s as flexible as it is tasty. Give this comforting casserole a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.