There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling your home with mouthwatering aromas. This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the epitome of cozy comfort food – a satisfying blend of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday family dinners, this crowd-pleasing dish combines simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a regular in your meal rotation, beloved by both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand
- Stretches a pound of ground beef to feed the whole family economically
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare earlier in the day and bake when needed
- Leftovers taste even better the next day for easy lunch options
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (any short shape)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This comforting casserole is going to be a family favorite!
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat as you go, until the beef is completely browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir the diced tomatoes (with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the beef mixture. Let everything simmer together for a couple minutes so the flavors can meld.
- Fold in your cooked pasta, making sure every piece gets coated with that delicious, creamy sauce. The mixture should look rich and well combined.
- Transfer the entire mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top – don't be shy with the cheese!
- Pop the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
- Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving – this helps it set up and makes it easier to scoop. Serve hot and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Tips & Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
- Add diced bell peppers or grated carrots for extra vegetables
- Use rotini or penne pasta instead of elbow macaroni if preferred
- Spice it up with a dash of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of taco seasoning
- Make it ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours, then bake (may need extra 5-10 minutes if cold)
- For a creamier version, add 4 oz of cream cheese along with the sour cream
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside some steamed broccoli or garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
For a fun twist, set up a topping bar with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, extra sour cream, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their portion.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual portions for quick future meals – will keep for up to 3 months.
- When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
- The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the cheese topping is golden brown.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
Yes, but skip the beef broth and reduce the simmering time. Add cooked pasta directly to the meat mixture before baking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients except cheese and sour cream. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, then stir in sour cream and top with cheese until melted.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt works as an excellent substitute with a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
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