This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese—what’s not to love? It’s simple to make, perfect for busy nights!
I mean, who can resist a one-pan meal that’s packed with cheesy goodness? I often make it when I’m craving something cozy. Just bake it and watch it disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are great for this casserole due to their texture. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use rotini or any short pasta. Just be sure to cook until al dente since they will also bake in the casserole.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is usually my choice for this recipe. If you’re looking for substitutions, ground turkey or chicken works well too! If you’re aiming for a healthier option, consider using plant-based ground meat.
Marinara Sauce: This provides a lovely flavor and moisture. If you don’t have marinara, feel free to substitute with a meat sauce or even cream of mushroom soup for a different taste!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend instead. Just remember, cheese is key for that melty topping!
How Can I Ensure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef properly makes a big difference in texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat; this allows the beef to brown evenly without burning.
- Break up the beef into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. This helps it brown better and provides a more consistent texture in the casserole.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; proper browning adds flavor!
Draining excess grease after cooking is important, especially if you’re using higher-fat beef, as it can make the casserole greasy.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (if using onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s quick enough to whip up on a busy weeknight and will be warm and comforting in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but still firm). Drain them and set them aside while you prepare the meat mixture.
3. Sauté the Onion:
If you’re using onions, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If you’re skipping the onions, just move on to the next step.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of grease, be sure to drain some off to keep your casserole from being greasy!
5. Mix in the Seasonings:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This adds lots of flavor to your beef mixture!
6. Combine with the Sauce:
Next, pour in the marinara or pasta sauce. Stir everything together and let it heat through for a couple of minutes. This step is where the magic starts, as the flavors combine deliciously.
7. Mix with Noodles and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef sauce mixture, milk, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed. You should have a creamy and cheesy mixture ready to go!
8. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has the perfect balance of noodles, meat, and sauce.
9. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the casserole. This will create that perfect cheesy crust that everyone loves.
10. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
11. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then serve it up hot and enjoy your deliciously cheesy creation!
Happy cooking and enjoy your comforting, cheesy, and satisfying hamburger casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles will add a nuttier flavor and are a healthier option. If you need gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta that can be cooked until al dente, then follow the recipe as directed. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can vary!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you want to change things up, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative like lentils or veggie crumbles for a vegetarian version. Just ensure to season them well to enhance the flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you’d like, add a splash of milk before reheating to maintain creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
