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This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish packed with savory ground beef, pasta, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese.

It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

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Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and rich, melted cheese in one easy-to-make dish. This casserole starts with seasoned ground beef sautéed with onions and garlic, creating a flavorful base.

The beef mixture is combined with cooked pasta and a creamy tomato-based sauce, then layered with generous amounts of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

After baking until bubbly and golden, the casserole comes out of the oven with a crispy, cheesy top and a rich, savory filling. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

The gooey cheese, seasoned beef, and comforting pasta make every bite satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switching up the cheese blend for a unique twist.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

1 Ib ground beef
1 small onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Pasta and Cheese:

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft. Drain any excess grease.
Make the Sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Mix It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, sour cream, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley (optional).

Why You Will Love Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together hearty flavors and satisfying textures in one easy-to-make dish. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s a family-friendly meal that’s both delicious and filling.

The melted cheese forms a golden, bubbly crust on top, adding a layer of gooey goodness that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and pasta underneath.

What makes this casserole a standout is its simplicity and versatility. It requires minimal prep and uses pantry staples, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that stretches to feed a crowd without sacrificing taste.

This casserole also reheats beautifully, so leftovers make for a quick and satisfying meal the next day. Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite!

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Tips and Serving Tricks

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.

It’s made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients like ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce—making it an easy go-to recipe when you need something satisfying and quick.

Here are some helpful tips and serving tricks to make your cheesy hamburger casserole even better:

Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

1. Choose the Right Ground Beef

Use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best flavor and texture. The fat helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
If you prefer a leaner option, go with 90/10 ground beef and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to prevent dryness.

2. Cook the Pasta Al Dente

Undercook the pasta by about 1-2 minutes less than the package directions. It will continue to cook while baking, preventing it from becoming mushy.
Penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini are ideal pasta shapes because they hold sauce and cheese well.

3. Season the Beef Properly

Brown the beef with onions, garlic, salt, and pepper for a flavorful base.
Add extra flavor by incorporating Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of paprika while browning the meat.

4. Mix Cheeses for Better Melt and Flavor

Use a combination of cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for gooeyness, and Parmesan for a nutty, salty touch.
Layer the cheese both inside and on top of the casserole for even distribution and a delicious crust.

5. Make It Creamier

Add sour cream or cream cheese to the meat mixture for extra richness.
A splash of milk or heavy cream mixed into the sauce will keep the casserole from drying out.

6. Enhance the Sauce

Combine tomato sauce or cream of mushroom soup with the ground beef for a creamy, flavorful base.
A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat if desired.

7. Bake Covered First, Then Uncover

Cover the casserole with foil for the first 20–25 minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
Remove the foil during the last 10–15 minutes to allow the cheese to become bubbly and golden.

Serving Tricks

1. Portion Control

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking before cutting. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to cut clean portions.
Use a sharp knife or a spatula to cut even squares for a neat presentation.

2. Garnish for Color and Flavor

Top with chopped parsley or green onions before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
A sprinkle of crushed red pepper or grated Parmesan right before serving enhances the overall flavor.

3. Pairing Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.

4. Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
To freeze, cover the assembled (unbaked) casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15–20 minutes to the cooking time.

Main Ingredients Affecting Nutrition:

Ground Beef: Contributes to protein, fat, and cholesterol.
Cheese: Adds fat, saturated fat, and calcium.
Pasta or Potatoes: Increase carbohydrate content.
Milk or Cream: Adds fat and calories.
Tomato Sauce: Adds carbs and some sugar.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, make-ahead dish that’s easy to customize. By using the right pasta, seasoning the beef properly, and combining different cheeses, you’ll create a flavorful and creamy casserole every time. Pair it with a fresh side salad and warm bread for a complete, satisfying meal.