This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a real crowd-pleaser! It’s packed with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese that melts into a delicious combination.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: Essential for this casserole, they soak up flavors beautifully. If you’re out of egg noodles, try using rotini or any short pasta—both work well and keep the texture enjoyable.
Ground Beef: The star of the dish! If you prefer turkey or chicken, they make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or plant-based crumbles.
Onion and Garlic: They add fantastic flavor to the dish. If you want a shortcut, use onion powder and garlic powder instead—about 1 teaspoon of each should do! No onions? No problem—just omit them!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack adds a milder flavor, and pepper jack can give a nice kick. Vegan cheese can be a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly Cheesy?
To achieve a great cheesy texture, layering is key! Start with half of the noodle and beef mixture, add cheese, then top with the remaining mixture and more cheese. This creates gooey pockets of cheese throughout!
- Mix well to combine flavors but don’t overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Now, cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This means they should be slightly firm but cooked through. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
3. Prepare the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, breaking it apart as you go. If you like, add the chopped onion and minced garlic for extra flavor. Cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix in the Sauces:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this delicious mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes to let the flavors blend together.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles with the beef and tomato sauce mixture. Make sure everything is well mixed to get that great flavor throughout.
6. Layer the Casserole:
Transfer half of this noodle and beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese and, if you’re using it, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. This adds a lovely cheesy layer!
7. Finish Layering:
Now, add the remaining noodle mixture on top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Cheese lovers will be thrilled!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen—get ready!
9. Enjoy!
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This gives it a chance to set a little, making it easier to serve. Dish it up and enjoy this hearty and cheesy family favorite!
There you have it! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to put together, making it a perfect weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that you might need to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor since they are milder than beef.
Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure that the other ingredients used, like sauces, are also gluten-free. Always check labels to be safe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still a bit cold.
