This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and comforting dish packed with ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal!
I love how everything cooks in one dish! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, you can toss in some veggies to sneak in a bit of health. Everyone will be asking for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are a great base for the casserole. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use any pasta like rotini or farfalle. Just make sure to cook it al dente since it will bake more in the oven.
Ground Beef: I like lean ground beef to keep it a bit healthier, but ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter options too. If you want a vegetarian version, try using lentils or crumbled tofu instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, but you could use a milder cheese if you prefer. Other options include Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses. For a twist, try adding some pepper jack for a little spice!
Sour Cream: This is optional but adds creaminess. If you prefer not to use it, plain Greek yogurt can substitute well or you can skip it altogether.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Stays Creamy?
To keep your casserole nice and creamy, it’s essential to combine the noodles with the beef mixture and cheese right after cooking. This helps mix in the flavors evenly. Here are a few tips:
- Don’t overcook the noodles during boiling; they should be firm since they will continue cooking in the oven.
- If using sour cream, mix it in thoroughly to ensure every bite has that creamy goodness.
- Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking. This traps moisture and helps prevent drying out.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for creamier texture)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 35 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving comfort food!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will bake evenly. While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish so nothing sticks.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This means they should still have a slight bite to them, as they’ll keep cooking in the oven. Once they’re ready, drain and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes until it’s softened. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Remember to drain any excess fat after browning the meat!
4. Add Flavor:
When the ground beef is cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Afterward, add in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Combine It All:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef mixture. If you’re using sour cream for added creaminess, mix that in too, along with 1 cup of your shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Transfer and Top:
Now, transfer your delicious mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, making it extra cheesy!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You will love the aroma filling your kitchen!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow it to set a little, making it easier to scoop out. Enjoy your hearty and cheesy hamburger casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary based on the meat you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten up the casserole, consider using whole wheat noodles, reducing the amount of cheese, or adding more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the mix. You can also use low-fat cheese or sour cream.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. If you find it’s a bit dry, adding a splash of broth or a dollop of sour cream can help revive it!
