INTRODUCTION

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that many people enjoy. It combines the flavors of ground beef, creamy soup, and pasta, all topped with lots of melted cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to serve a crowd. It is simple to make and usually becomes a family favorite.

The best part about this casserole is how easy it is to throw together. You can prepare it in just one pan, and it is ready in a short time. The cheesy topping makes it even more appealing and delicious. When you serve this dish, people will surely be asking for seconds!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons why Cheesy Hamburger Casserole stands out. First, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for those busy evenings. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that satisfies everyone.

Second, this casserole is very versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients according to your taste. If you want to sneak in some veggies, you can add them without any trouble.

Third, it is a complete meal in one dish. You have protein from the beef, carbs from the pasta, and creamy goodness from the sauce. Plus, the cheese gives it that mouthwatering taste we all love!

Lastly, leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can enjoy this dish for days. Whether you share it with family or keep it all to yourself, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a winning recipe.

HOW TO MAKE Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Let’s take a look at how to make this delicious casserole. You’ll find this dish is easy to prepare and makes use of simple ingredients. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a yummy meal hot out of the oven.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

For making Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, you will need the following equipment:

A large skillet for cooking the beef
A baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
A measuring cup and spoons
An oven to bake your casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups cooked pasta
1 medium onion, chopped
1 pound ground beef
Black pepper, add however much you like
Salt, add as much as you need
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Start by turning your oven on and setting it to 350°F (175°C) to get it warmed up. Preheating is important for even cooking.
In a large skillet, cook your ground beef with the chopped onion on medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is brown and there is no pink left. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
After the beef is cooked, drain off any extra fat from the skillet.
Next, mix in the diced tomatoes, the can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until it is well combined.
Toss in the cooked pasta next and stir well so everything gets mixed up nicely. You want each piece of pasta to be coated with that yummy beef mixture.
Spread the mixture into your greased baking dish. Make sure it is evenly distributed around the dish.
Scatter the shredded cheddar cheese over the whole top of your casserole. You can use more cheese if you want it extra cheesy!
Put your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes or until you see the top get all melty and bubbly.
Once it’s done, give your casserole a quick break outside the oven before you grab a serving. This allows it to set a little, making it easier to serve.

HOW TO SERVE Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole makes a great main dish. Serve it hot right from the oven in big scoops. Pair it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced meal. You can add some garlic bread on the side to soak up that delicious sauce too!

Leftovers taste amazing, so don’t hesitate to store any uneaten portions. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

If you have leftovers, they can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in a tightly sealed container.

You can also freeze Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for longer storage. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven until heated through.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To make the meal complete, consider these serving suggestions:

A simple green salad with a light dressing to balance the richness of the casserole.
Warm garlic bread for a satisfying side.
Pickles or olives on the side for a bit of crunch and tang.
Top each serving with chopped fresh herbs like parsley for extra freshness.

VARIATIONS

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is versatile, and you can make it your own! Here are some variations you can try:

Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
Add vegetables: Stir in some frozen peas, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Change the cheese: Mix up the types of cheese you use. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add different flavors.
Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, shells, or even gluten-free pasta.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meat and add beans or lentils for protein. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef soup.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day or freeze it for later.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 or 3 months.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

To make your life easier, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time:

Cook the pasta: You can cook the pasta in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to mix it in.
Brown the beef: You can cook the ground beef with the onions ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Mix the sauces: Prepare the sauce mixture with the soup and seasonings ahead of time. Store it in the fridge until you are ready to assemble your casserole.

By following these tips, you can have a quick and easy meal ready to go whenever you need it! Enjoy your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole!