Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

If you’re searching for a dinner that promises comfort, color, and total family satisfaction, look no further than this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Just imagine elbow macaroni tangled up with juicy bits of seasoned ground beef, all smothered in a melty blanket of cheddar. The diced tomatoes add brightness, the Italian herbs bring unmistakable warmth, and with minimal prep, it all comes together for that bubbling, golden finish that’s basically irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving leftovers for tomorrow, this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is about to earn a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these ingredients is how each one is straight from the pantry or fridge yet packs in tons of flavor. They’re simple, approachable, and—together—they build the layers that make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing.

• Lean ground beef: Delivers hearty, rich flavor—and the right amount of savoriness—without making the casserole greasy.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic, kid-approved noodles that soak up all the meaty, cheesy goodness in every bite.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey, golden-laced top we can’t get enough of.
• Diced onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to balance the beef.
• Minced garlic: Brings a mellow aromatic punch that elevates the whole casserole.
• Canned diced tomatoes (with juice): Lends tang, juiciness, and vibrant color for classic casserole comfort.
• Beef broth: Infuses the pasta with rich, savory notes—way better than boiling in water alone!
• Salt: A must for highlighting all the flavors without overpowering.
• Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and zip.
• Italian herbs: Think oregano, basil, and thyme; these blend together and make the casserole sing with homey flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Beef, Onions, and Garlic

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big skillet set over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink and has developed a little color on the edges; this is what makes the flavor so satisfying. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing everything together until soft. That pop of aroma tells you something delicious is happening!

Step 2: Build Your Pasta Base

Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni right into the skillet—no need to boil separately, making things easier and giving the noodles more flavor as they cook. Add in the diced tomatoes (juice included) and beef broth; give everything a good mix so the pasta gets evenly coated by all that savory goodness.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Season everything generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down low and let it simmer for a few minutes. This is when the noodles start to soak up those juicy, herby flavors!

Step 4: Get Cheesy

Fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt and mingle with the beefy pasta. The cheese adds creaminess and ties the whole casserole together—don’t be shy about mixing until everything looks totally luscious.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer the cheesy mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and scatter the rest of the cheddar cheese right over the top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until you spot golden bubbly patches—trust me, this is your signal that Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Garnishes

A quick sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving instantly brightens the dish. For a little kick, try a dash of red pepper flakes or even a swirl of sour cream—these little touches elevate every cheesy forkful.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies makes for a complete meal. If you want to lean into comfort, serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any saucy bits left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner-party look, or serve family-style straight from the bubbling dish for that cozy, “everyone dig in” vibe. For a fun twist, add a layer of tater tots or crumbled potato chips on top before baking—kids and adults alike will race to the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Stash any leftover Cheesy Hamburger Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three days, making it a dream for meal prepping or next-day lunches that taste just as good, if not better.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, let the casserole cool completely, then portion and freeze in freezer-safe containers. It’s best enjoyed within two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to revisit all that cheesy comfort.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, adding a splash of broth if things look a little dry. In a pinch, the microwave works too—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring to help the heat distribute evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will soak up the savory flavors beautifully. Just adjust the bake time if needed, as some shapes cook a tad faster or slower.

What type of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar cheese is classic for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend for added flavor. Pre-shredded cheese makes things super convenient, though freshly grated cheese melts a bit smoother.

Can I add extra veggies?

Definitely—this recipe is quite forgiving! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for extra nutrition and color. Just keep proportions in mind so you don’t overcrowd the pan or dish.

How do I make this casserole ahead for busy nights?

Assemble Cheesy Hamburger Casserole up until the baking step, cover tightly, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, uncover and bake; you may need to add an extra five minutes to the baking time.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not at all—Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a cozy, kid-friendly dish with plenty of savory flavor but zero heat. If you like things spicy, feel free to add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or just some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole brings so much joy to the dinner table—it’s a little bit nostalgic, a lot comforting, and truly easy enough for any night of the week. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a favorite in your own kitchen!

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