Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavors and hearty satisfaction to the table.

With simple, everyday ingredients and a straightforward process, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a warm, homemade meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, from adding extra veggies to swapping out proteins. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy this comfort food any time you need it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Cheesy: The creamy cheese sauce and melty topping make this casserole irresistibly indulgent.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with pasta, ground beef, and cheese, it’s a satisfying one-dish meal.
• Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep, making it ideal for beginners or busy cooks.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, seasonings, or protein swaps for a personalized dish.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make it ahead and freeze for stress-free dinners.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 410
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or shells work best)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish
• Large skillet
• Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Cook the mixture for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Mix until evenly coated.
2. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Top with shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs if using.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. If a crispier topping is desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or your favorite herbs. Serve hot.

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef

Ground beef is the heart of this dish, adding protein and a savory depth of flavor. Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Pasta

Elbow macaroni, penne, or shells are ideal for their ability to hold the sauce. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used for dietary needs.

Cheese

The combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich and creamy casserole. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or Pepper Jack.

Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provide a tangy, slightly sweet base for the beef mixture. Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs add a crispy topping, but they’re optional. Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can also be used.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Layer the Cheese: Stir some cheese directly into the casserole and reserve some for the topping for a gooey, melty finish.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the beef mixture before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Servings: Divide the mixture into ramekins or mini baking dishes for single-serving portions.
• Layered Casserole: Layer the pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce like a lasagna for a visually appealing presentation.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with the casserole mixture and bake for a unique twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect texture.
• Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to allow it to set.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Recipe Variations

Mexican-Inspired

• Add taco seasoning to the beef mixture and include diced jalapeños, black beans, and corn. Top with shredded Pepper Jack cheese.

Vegetarian Option

• Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

• Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon and pickles for a cheeseburger-inspired twist.

Spicy Kick

• Add red pepper flakes or diced green chilies to the cheese sauce for a spicy casserole.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce fat content.
• Opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
• Replace some of the cheese with nutritional yeast for a lower-fat alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition.
• Offer toppings like hot sauce, crushed red pepper, or fresh herbs for guests to customize their plates.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet for cooking the beef mixture
• Medium saucepan for the cheese sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Yes! Pre-cooked ground beef can be added directly to the skillet with the tomato mixture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the breadcrumbs (if used) are gluten-free.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms all make great additions.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Cover the dish with foil while baking and remove it during the last 10 minutes for a golden topping.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as Gouda, Swiss, or Pepper Jack.

8. What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips work well for a crispy topping.

Conclusion

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it a go-to recipe for family meals, potlucks, or entertaining guests. With its creamy cheese sauce, savory seasoned beef, and tender pasta, this hearty dish is sure to become a household favorite that everyone will request time and time again. Its versatility makes it endlessly customizable—add your favorite vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or swap the beef for turkey or sausage for a unique twist.

Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead meal planning, offering ultimate convenience for busy schedules. Pair it with a crisp salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing dinner for a quiet night in, this classic casserole delivers cheesy, heartwarming goodness in every bite. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a dish that brings people together and leaves everyone at the table smiling!

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