Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake Recipe

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is pure comfort food bliss. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s packed with ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and loads of melted cheese. And the best part? It comes together quickly and easily, making it an ideal go-to for busy weeknights. With its irresistible cheesy topping and savory meat filling, this bake is bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fuss-Free: This recipe is all about simplicity. Minimal prep, one baking dish, and done!
• Family-Friendly: It’s kid-approved and picky-eater safe. Who doesn’t love pasta and cheese?
• Budget-Conscious: Uses everyday pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
• Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, gooey, and packed with nostalgic flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef: The base of the casserole, bringing hearty, meaty flavor.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni or rotini work perfectly; they hold the sauce well.
• Onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory flavor. Use fresh if possible.
• Tomato Sauce: Forms the rich, tangy base of the casserole.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of tomato flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic herbaceous profile.
• Cheddar Cheese: For that gooey, melty, cheesy top.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Blends beautifully with cheddar for stretchy, creamy texture.
• Salt and Pepper: To bring all the flavors together.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Different Meat: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion over medium heat until browned. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Combine and Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well. Fresh is best.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It will cook further in the oven.
• Let it Rest: This helps the casserole firm up and makes serving easier.
• Double It: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

How to Serve

This casserole shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a few sides:

Side Salads:

A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette adds freshness to balance the richness.

Garlic Bread:

Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Roasted Veggies:

Try broccoli, zucchini, or carrots for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and store in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Short pastas like elbow, rotini, or penne work best as they hold onto the sauce and cheese.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of making my own?
Yes! Use your favorite store-bought sauce to save time. Just make sure it’s not too watery.

How can I make it healthier?
Use lean ground meat, whole wheat pasta, and toss in some extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is everything a weeknight dinner should be—easy, filling, and absolutely delicious. It’s a cozy dish that brings everyone to the table, and with all those melty layers, who could resist? Give it a try and make it your own!

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