This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and tasty dish everyone will love! It’s made with ground beef, pasta, and lots of melted cheese, creating a comfy, delicious meal.
I love how quick it is to prepare! Just mix everything in one dish, pop it in the oven, and enjoy the yummy smells. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese? It always wins! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I recommend using lean ground beef, so you won’t get too much grease. If you prefer something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works great as an alternative!
Onion & Garlic: While both are optional, I think they add fantastic flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder and garlic powder instead. About 1 teaspoon of each should do!
Egg Noodles: Classic choice! However, if you don’t have egg noodles on hand, you can use any pasta you like, such as elbow macaroni or bow tie pasta.
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice for flavor! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can mix in pepper jack for some spice or use mozzarella for stretchy cheese goodness. Vegan cheese could also be a fun substitute!
Milk: For a creamier dish, the milk is optional but helpful. You can replace it with a non-dairy milk if you prefer a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Casserole?
Getting a flavorful casserole comes down to how you prepare the beef and sauce. Make sure to brown the meat well! This adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Start by squeezing out as much moisture from the onions and garlic as possible.
- Cook the beef until it’s nicely browned—don’t rush this step!
- Let the tomato sauce simmer with the meat for a few minutes. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before mixing everything. A little extra salt or pepper makes a big difference!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (if using onion and garlic)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake, making a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a 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 your casserole.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but firm). Drain them and set them aside for now.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you’re using onion and garlic, add them now and sauté until they’re softened—about 3-4 minutes. This will give your casserole a nice flavor base!
4. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the cooked onions and garlic. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, around 6-8 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
5. Mix in the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend nicely.
6. Creamy Option:
If you want a creamier texture, now is the time to stir in the milk. This is optional but highly recommended for a rich flavor!
7. Combine Noodles and Beef:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
8. Layer in the Dish:
Transfer half of the noodle and beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the shredded cheese over the top.
9. Add Remaining Mixture:
Layer the remaining noodle and beef mixture over the cheese, then top evenly with the rest of the cheese.
10. Bake It Up:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. It’s time to dig in and enjoy this cheesy goodness!
This cheesy hamburger casserole is not only hearty but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect dish for family dinners. Enjoy! 😊
FAQ About Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute for a leaner option. Just cook it in the same way as the beef until fully browned.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake; you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No worries! You can substitute egg noodles with any other pasta you have on hand, such as macaroni, rotini, or penne. Just make sure to cook it until al dente before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! You can mix in some cooked veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
