This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole brings together ground beef, gooey cheese, and pasta for a cozy, family-friendly meal. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Honestly, I could eat this every week! It’s super simple to throw together, and it usually disappears in no time. Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: I love using egg noodles for their soft texture and ability to soak up flavors. If they’re hard to find, rotini or fusilli work too. They hold sauce well and cook easily.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives a nice flavor and texture. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted. Just remember, they may need a bit more seasoning!
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce adds moisture and tang. If you’re looking for a twist, try crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its melty goodness! For a change, mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added creaminess and a little kick.
Onion: If you’re not a fan of onions, you can skip them or use onion powder instead. This way, you still get that onion flavor without the chunks.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Ground Beef?
Brown beef properly to enhance its flavor. Here’s a straightforward guide:
- Use medium-high heat and preheat your skillet.
- Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula.
- Cook without stirring for the first few minutes. Letting it sit forms a nice crust!
- Once it’s browned on one side, break it apart and continue cooking until no pink remains.
Drain excess fat after browning for a leaner dish. This ensures your casserole is not greasy!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for a creamy texture)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for mixing with noodles)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready when you are for the casserole!
2. Prepare the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. They’ll soak up all those tasty flavors later!
3. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. If you’re using onion, toss it in as well. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat for a healthier dish!
4. Mix in the Flavors
Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes. This will help the flavors blend beautifully!
5. Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture. For a creamier casserole, you can add butter and milk at this stage, then fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it well!
6. Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the noodle and beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out nicely.
7. Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle your extra shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. The more cheese, the merrier!
8. Bake It
Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want it golden and inviting!
9. Let It Cool and Serve
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set. Then, serve it up and enjoy your warm, cheesy comfort meal!
Dig in and savor every cheesy bite!
FAQ About Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat Noodles Instead of Egg Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles can be used as a healthier alternative. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions, as whole wheat noodles may take a bit longer to reach al dente texture.
What Can I Use Instead of Milk to Keep It Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or even vegetable broth. Just be mindful that it may slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the beef to ensure they’re cooked through before mixing everything together.
