Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm, gooey hug. Imagine layers of tender hamburger meat mingling with creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection. You can practically smell the cheesy goodness wafting through the kitchen, making your mouth water with anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.
This delightful casserole brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners, where laughter and the aroma of melting cheese filled the air. It’s a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends, promising comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy nights when you need a quick meal
- The rich flavor profile combines savory beef and creamy cheese, which will have your taste buds dancing
- The colorful layers make it visually appealing and sure to impress your family and friends
- This dish is versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients or leftovers
I vividly remember the first time I made this casserole for my friends; their eyes lit up as they took the first bite, and I knew I had struck gold.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease; it gives the casserole a hearty base without being overly oily.
Egg Noodles: These cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully; opt for wide noodles for extra texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when sautéed; diced finely so it blends well into the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings rich flavor; feel free to mix in some mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Milk: Whole milk makes it extra creamy; you can substitute with plant milk if preferred.
Seasonings: Use garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance flavors; don’t skip these essentials!
Canned Tomato Sauce: A simple can of tomato sauce adds moisture and tang; choose low-sodium if watching salt intake.
Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley adds a splash of color and freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Cook the Noodles: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onion and ground beef. Cook until onions are translucent and beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper while stirring the meat mixture. Let those flavors mingle for another couple of minutes until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, meat mixture, tomato sauce, and milk. Mix well until everything is evenly coated with that luscious sauce.
Add Cheese: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into your noodle mixture for an ultra-creamy blend before transferring everything into a greased baking dish.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Top with remaining cheese halfway through baking until melted and bubbly.
Now that you’ve prepared this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, get ready for compliments from everyone at your dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy bite while basking in all that culinary glory! For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
You Must Know
- Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that combines flavors and ease
- The aroma of melting cheese wafts through the air, making it a family favorite
- Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is customizable and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a pan, draining excess fat before adding ingredients. Cook pasta separately while preparing the sauce for optimal flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring cheese remains melty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole turns out perfectly, remember to drain excess grease after browning beef
- Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact
- Finally, let it rest before serving to enhance flavors and make serving easier
Some of my best memories revolve around this casserole. I once made it for a potluck, and friends begged me for the recipe—who knew cheesy goodness could spark such love?
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?
You can easily use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives instead.
Can I add vegetables to my Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or spinach can enhance flavor and nutrition.
How long does Cheesy Hamburger Casserole last in the fridge?
It keeps well in an airtight container for about three days in the refrigerator.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. This one-dish wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering a warm and satisfying meal everyone will love. With its rich flavors and gooey texture, it’s no surprise this casserole has become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 15 oz canned tomato sauce (low sodium)
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook egg noodles until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and ground beef until onions are translucent and beef is browned (7-10 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Combine cooked noodles, beef mixture, tomato sauce, and milk in a mixing bowl; mix well.
- Fold in half of the cheddar cheese and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, topping with remaining cheese halfway through until melted and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
