Hamburger casseroles are the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with flavors that make you feel right at home. This dish combines your favorite elements of a classic cheeseburger into a simple and bake-friendly style, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The winning combination of ground beef, macaroni, and gooey cheese creates a delightful meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for any home cook.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Hamburger Casserole
This hamburger casserole is a fantastic all-in-one meal that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s simple to prepare, filled with ingredients that families love, and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you need something comforting for a cold night or a crowd-pleaser for a casual gathering, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to sneak in some veggies if you wish—just toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients!
How to Make Hamburger Casserole
Creating a delicious hamburger casserole is straightforward. You’ll start by browning the meat, then combine everything in a baking dish, and let the oven work its magic. Let me guide you through the process step by step!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, green onions
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by getting all your ingredients ready—chop the onion, measure the pasta, and shred your cheese if needed.
Step 2: Cooking the Meat
In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to prevent the casserole from being greasy.
Step 3: Mixing the Ingredients
Next, stir in the tomato sauce, milk, and the cooked macaroni. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure everything is well combined, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Baking the Casserole
Transfer the beef and macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Top it off generously with shredded cheese. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once done, serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Hamburger Casserole
This hamburger casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it with a few toppings! Consider adding diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal, or serve with garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
How to Store Hamburger Casserole
Leftover casserole? No problem! Allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Hamburger Casserole
- Beef Alternatives: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
- Pasta variety: Any small pasta works well—try using shells or penne for a unique twist.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile, such as mozzarella or pepper jack!
- Veggie Add-ins: Boost nutrition by adding cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Toss them in before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Delicious Variations
- Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning to the beef, use corn instead of macaroni, and top with Mexican blend cheese for a flavorful Mexican Hamburger Casserole.
- Italian Style: Use Italian sausage, add Italian seasoning, and replace the tomato sauce with marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired dish.
- BBQ Flavor: Add some BBQ sauce to the mix, replace regular cheese with gouda, and sprinkle crispy bacon on top for a smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great option, adding more fiber and nutrients to the dish. -
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. -
Can I make a smaller portion?
Yes! Simply halve the ingredients to make a smaller casserole. Adjust the baking time accordingly, starting with 15-20 minutes. -
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
You can use a can of diced tomatoes or homemade tomato sauce if you prefer. -
Can this casserole be served for breakfast?
Yes! Add in some scrambled eggs and serve it as a hearty breakfast dish.
Conclusion
This hamburger casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Packed with flavors and easy to make, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it on a family movie night, at a potluck, or simply as a treat for yourself after a long day, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful taste of comfort food!
Print
Hamburger Casserole
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A rich and hearty hamburger casserole that combines ground beef, macaroni, and gooey cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Chop the onion, measure the pasta, and shred your cheese if needed.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, milk, and cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Serve with optional toppings like diced tomatoes and green onions. Great with a side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
