This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that’s great for any meal. It mixes ground beef, pasta, and plenty of gooey cheese into a one-pan wonder!
I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy nights. Just throw everything in, bake, and get ready for cheesy goodness—your family will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These noodles are a great base for the casserole. You can substitute them with other pasta types like rotini or fusilli. They should cook for about the same time, so follow the package instructions.
Ground Beef: If you want a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. You can even use ground chicken. Just remember, the flavors might change slightly.
Onion: A small onion adds important flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use onion powder (about 1 tablespoon), or skip it altogether if you’re not a fan!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up! Monterrey Jack or a blend of different cheeses can add a unique taste. Use what you have on hand!
Tomato Sauce: If you want a chunkier version, you can substitute tomato sauce with diced tomatoes. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels, as diced tomatoes will add more moisture.
How Do I Cook the Noodles Just Right?
Cooking the noodles to the perfect texture is key! You want them al dente, meaning they should still have a slight bite to them, since they’ll cook more in the oven.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the noodles and cook them according to the package directions, usually about 7-9 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste a noodle a minute or two before it should be done to check.
- Drain them well but don’t rinse; you want the starch to help the sauce cling!
Follow these tips, and your casserole will turn out delicious and cheesy every time!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing onion)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in about 40-45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s ready when you finish preparing the casserole.
2. Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until they are al dente. Usually, this takes about 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat (if using). Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and fragrant.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
5. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, water, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
6. Combine with Noodles:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef and sauce mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
7. Layer the Casserole:
Transfer half of the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Then, add the remaining noodle mixture and finish with the final cup of shredded cheese on top.
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve!
Enjoy your comforting and cheesy hamburger casserole! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner dish. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly like you would the beef, and the flavors will still be delicious.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake it, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or milk to keep it from drying out.
