This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is all about comfort! It’s a delightful mix of ground beef, pasta, and tons of gooey cheese—perfect for a family dinner!
Every bite is a cheesy hug! I love how fast it comes together. Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Don’t blame me if you go back for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are the heart of the dish! You can use traditional egg noodles, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta as a substitute.
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef (80/20) for the best flavor. If you’re trying to cut some calories, turkey or chicken ground meat works just as well! For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or crumbled tofu.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful flavor! If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for mozzarella or a spicy pepper jack for a kick. You can also mix cheeses for a melty topping!
Sour Cream: While it adds creaminess, you can skip it or use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. You could also use cream cheese for a richer taste.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef correctly sets the stage for this casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil if your beef is very lean.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula.
- Cook it until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat for a less greasy dish.
- Don’t rush this step! Browning adds a lot of flavor to the beef.
This simple technique makes a big difference. Just remember, the more color you get on the meat, the more flavor the dish will have!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil and oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for added creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, making for a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll enjoy a comforting meal without spending all evening in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be ready when your casserole mixture is all set to go. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles
Boil the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but firm). Once done, drain them in a colander and set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. If you’re using onion, add the chopped onion now. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to make it less greasy.
4. Create the Sauce
Add the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
5. Mix It All Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, the beef sauce mixture, sour cream (if using), and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until nicely mixed.
6. Layer the Casserole
Transfer the noodle mixture into your greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is filled with goodness.
7. Add the Cheddar Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give it a delicious, gooey finish when baked.
8. Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is fully melted and bubbly—just look for that golden, delicious topping!
9. Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes to help set the layers. Then, it’s ready to enjoy!
10. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole warm, alongside a simple green salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
This casserole is a perfect blend of gooey cheese, hearty beef, and satisfying noodles, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional for this casserole, you can substitute them with any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook the pasta until al dente before mixing it into the casserole.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken are great lighter options. For a vegetarian variation, consider using cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat to give it a similar texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through. If the casserole appears dry, consider adding a splash of milk while reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance (up to 24 hours) and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in the oven straight from the fridge. Enjoy the convenience of a ready-to-bake meal!
