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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 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
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 9x13-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).