This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a hearty dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Just mix everything in one dish, bake, and you’re ready to enjoy. I often top it with some extra cheese because, well, why not? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are the base for the casserole, providing a chewy texture. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use rotini or fusilli pasta instead — just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for healthier options. If you want a lighter meal, you can substitute with ground turkey or even a meat alternative like lentils for a vegetarian version!
Onion: Onions add flavor and sweetness. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out or substitute with onion powder for that flavor without the texture.
Marinara Sauce: This sauce gives moisture and flavor to the dish. If you want, you can use homemade sauce or any preferred pasta sauce. A creamy sauce adds a different twist too!
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, you could swap it with mozzarella for a different stretchiness or use a blend if you prefer. Cream cheese also adds a nice creaminess!
How Do You Ensure the Casserole is Creamy and Cheesy?
Achieving the perfect creaminess in your casserole is all about mixing and baking the ingredients properly.
- Mix the sauces and cheeses well with the noodles to ensure every bite is cheesy.
- Consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the pasta mixture for extra creaminess if you’d like.
- Baking uncovered helps to toast the cheese on top, creating a delicious crust while keeping the inside moist.
Don’t rush the cooling time after removing from the oven; it helps everything set up a bit, making it easier to serve!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking, making the total time approximately 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help your casserole come out easily later on!
2. Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. This means they should still have a bit of firmness when you bite into them. After cooking, drain the noodles well and set them aside for now.
3. Brown the Meat:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion (if using). Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from becoming too oily!
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the marinara sauce, garlic powder (if you’re using it), along with some salt and pepper to taste into the skillet with the meat. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will help combine the flavors nicely.
5. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, the meat sauce mixture, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. You want every noodle to be covered in sauce and cheese!
6. Transfer and Spread:
Now, carefully transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nice and uniformly.
7. Add Extra Cheese:
Time to make it super cheesy! Sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixed ingredients. This will create a delicious, gooey layer once it’s baked!
8. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly around the edges. Your kitchen will smell fantastic!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once you take it out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a little and make serving easier. Dive into your comforting, cheesy hamburger casserole and enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Alternative Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta like penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as needed according to package instructions.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to bake, just add a few minutes to the cooking time as it will be starting from a cooler temperature.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s hot in the center.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add in any veggies you like, such as bell peppers or spinach, to make it more nutritious. You can also swap cheeses or use a different type of sauce for a change in flavor. This dish is versatile!
