This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that combines beef, pasta, and yummy cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal in a flash!
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese bubbling on top? It’s like a hug in a dish! I love to pair it with a side salad for a little crunch. What’s your favorite way to enjoy it?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are a classic choice for this casserole. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini as a lighter alternative.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works well, but you can substitute turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Onion and Garlic: While optional, they add great flavor! If you’re sensitive to onion, use garlic powder instead or skip them altogether.
Tomato Sauce & Paste: These provide a rich base. If you prefer fresh, you can use diced tomatoes along with some tomato puree. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is perfect for melting, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack can also work well. For a sharper taste, choose aged cheddar or pepper jack.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Texture in the Casserole?
A creamy texture comes from the combination of sauces and cheese. Make sure to mix the tomato sauce and paste thoroughly with the beef and noodles. Here’s how to ensure creaminess:
- Use a combination of sauces like sour cream or cream cheese mixed into the meat sauce for extra creaminess.
- When layering, evenly distribute some cheese within the layers for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Let the casserole sit after baking to allow the flavors to mingle and the texture to set.
These simple tips will ensure a creamy, delicious dish every time!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes from start to delicious dining!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first—get your oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This way, the casserole will be nice and hot when it’s time to bake.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Next, boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente—this means they should still have a little bite to them. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside for later.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. If you’re using onion and garlic, toss those in, too! Cook until everything is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it nice and healthy.
4. Add the Sauces:
Now, stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste into the beef mixture. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and add salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can combine. Your kitchen should start smelling fantastic!
5. Mix It All Together:
In a big bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well mixed. This will be the heart of your casserole!
6. Layer the Casserole:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour half of the noodle and beef mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
7. Add Another Layer:
Pour the rest of the noodle and beef mixture on top of the cheese layer. Finally, add the rest of the cheddar cheese on top. The more cheese, the better!
8. Bake It Up:
Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly—just the way we love it!
9. Let It Rest:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps everything settle and makes serving easier.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop out a hearty serving of your cozy, cheesy hamburger casserole and enjoy! Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Alternative Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free alternatives can be used in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, but you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk or broth before reheating to keep it moist.
What Can I Add to This Casserole for Extra Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, you can add cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini into the beef mixture. You can also sprinkle in some hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a bit of spice! Feel free to get creative!
