This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings together ground beef, noodles, and lots of melty cheese. It’s a one-pan meal that makes dinner a breeze!
Who can resist cheesy goodness? I love how it comes together in no time, and it’s perfect for leftovers—if there are any! Plus, my kids always ask for seconds. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is the go-to for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. I often use turkey, and it still tastes fantastic!
Pasta: Egg noodles are traditional here, but you can easily substitute with any wide pasta like penne or fusilli. I’ve even tried it with gluten-free pasta, and it turned out great!
Tomato Sauce: Canned tomato sauce is convenient, but you could use homemade marinara or even diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Sometimes, I add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this casserole, but feel free to mix it up! I love using a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamy richness. You can also use dairy-free cheese if you prefer!
How Do You Ensure the Perfectly Cooked Noodles?
Cooking your noodles just right is crucial for the best texture in this casserole. Here’s how to nail it:
- Boil water in a large pot and generously salt it—this flavors your noodles.
- Add the noodles, and cook according to package instructions, stopping just short of al dente.
- Remember, they will cook a bit more in the oven, so you want them slightly firm when you drain them.
Rinsing the noodles with cold water after draining helps stop the cooking process, keeping them from becoming mushy in the casserole.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce or marinara sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (if using onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes for baking, making the total time around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that comes together easily for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the casserole cook evenly once you’re ready to bake it!
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they’re done, drain them in a colander and set aside. You want them slightly firm since they’ll bake more in the oven.
3. Sauté the Onion (Optional):
If you’re using an onion for flavor, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion is softened.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion (if using) and start cooking it. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it away.
5. Add the Sauces and Spices:
Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend together nicely!
6. Mix Everything Together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and sauce mixture. Gently mix everything together until well combined.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch (22x33cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter, and pour the noodle and meat mixture into the dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
8. Top with Cheddar Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously gooey cheesy layer!
9. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll love the smell!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit before you dig in. Serve it warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
This comforting Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is perfect for family dinners or easy meal prep. Everyone will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still get a delicious casserole!
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, any wide pasta like penne or fusilli will work perfectly. Just make sure to cook it al dente as it will soften further during baking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Feel free to mix in some cooked vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions if using!
