Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Craving a hearty and comforting meal that will bring everyone together around the dinner table? Look no further than this mouthwatering Hamburger Casserole Baked Cheese recipe! This delightful dish combines the richness of cheesy pasta, the savory goodness of well-seasoned beef, and the satisfying flavors of tomato sauce into one unforgettable bake. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want cozy leftovers for lunch the next day, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

Hamburger Casserole Baked Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to please. Picture perfectly cooked elbow macaroni smothered in a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds. With the addition of fire roasted diced tomatoes, this dish boasts a subtle smoky undertone that elevates its flavors to new heights. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and fills your belly with happiness, making it a must-have in your recipe collection. So, gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this unforgettable casserole!

Table of Contents

Quick Benefits

Comforting and satisfying meal that feels like home
Versatile – can be customized with different types of pasta, cheeses, and vegetables
Make-ahead friendly – great for meal prep or freezing for later
Adaptable – easily swap ingredients for a lighter or seasonal twist

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe Recipe

Comfort Food at its Best: This recipe combines cheesy pasta, seasoned beef, and savory tomato sauce for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a group, this casserole is a guaranteed hit at gatherings or sleepovers.
Kid-Friendly: Children love the cheesy top and saucy noodles, making it a great way to get them to enjoy a wholesome meal.
Satisfying and Cozy: The flavors come together to create a deeply satisfying meal that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole in advance and bake it fresh when needed, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
Customizable and Versatile: Easily swap ingredients like pasta type, meat, and cheese to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare extra portions and freeze them for a quick and easy meal later, maintaining that fresh-baked taste.
Classic American Home Cooking: This dish is a delicious representation of traditional American comfort food that everyone loves.
Healthy Swaps: Make lighter versions by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and adding vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Endlessly Adaptable: You can modify the recipe to suit different seasons by using fresh ingredients like bell peppers in summer or butternut squash in fall.

Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Main Components

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Kosher salt, to taste
1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 small onion, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 red or green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Pro Tips for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Pro Tip 1: Experiment with different types of pasta like penne or rotini for a fun twist on this classic dish. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the pasta is perfectly al dente.

Pro Tip 2: For added flavor and texture, consider incorporating additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini along with the bell peppers and onions. This can elevate the dish and add a delicious variety of flavors.

Pro Tip 3: To lighten up the casserole, swap the ground beef for ground turkey and season generously to enhance the taste. It’s a great way to make a healthier version without compromising on flavor.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of lightly salted water. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente following package directions. Drain well.

Step 3: Sauté Beef and Vegetables

Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper halfway through cooking. Cook until vegetables are soft and beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

Step 4: Combine Flavorings

Lower skillet heat to low, then add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Step 5: Add Sauces and Pasta

Combine tomato sauce, fire roasted diced tomatoes, and cooked macaroni in the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

Spread the beef mixture into the 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbling.

Storage Tips

After preparing and enjoying your delicious hamburger casserole baked cheese, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat the casserole in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through for best results. This dish reheats beautifully, maintaining its cheesy, comforting flavors for a satisfying meal whenever you crave it.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions of the casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Simply thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the fridge, then bake until bubbly to enjoy the flavors of this hearty dish once again. Whether you are planning for quick weekday dinners or stocking up for future meals, properly storing your hamburger casserole will help preserve its taste and quality, allowing you to savor every bite.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this hamburger casserole, consider swapping ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Make sure to season the meat well to enhance the flavor and maintain the savory profile of the dish. Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative while still providing a delicious and satisfying meal.

If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to substitute elbow macaroni with penne or rotini. Adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the type of pasta you choose. Different pasta shapes can give the casserole a unique texture and appearance while still soaking up the flavors of the cheesy and saucy elements.

While bell peppers and onions are classic additions to this casserole, you can customize it by incorporating other vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. These vegetables can add a new dimension to the dish and provide a variety of colors and nutrients. Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste preferences and make the casserole your own.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this hamburger casserole baked cheese, consider turning them into individual portions by scooping the mixture into small ramekins before topping with the cheese. This not only makes for an adorable presentation but also allows for easy portion control for gatherings or meal prepping.

To add a crunchy element, sprinkle some buttered breadcrumbs or crushed croutons over the cheese layer before baking. The crispy topping will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy and cheesy casserole underneath, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor to each bite. Serve with a side of tangy pickles or a dollop of sour cream for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

FAQs for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Can I substitute elbow macaroni with a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with penne, rotini, or any short pasta. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I assemble the casserole in advance and bake it later?

You can assemble it in advance, keep it refrigerated, and bake just before serving for convenience and freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Bell peppers and onions are classic, but you can add mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Ground turkey can be swapped for beef for a lighter version. Just season well to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

As you savor the delightful flavors of this Hamburger Casserole Baked Cheese, remember that the heartwarming essence of home-cooked meals lies in the joy they bring to those we love. This comforting dish has the power to turn ordinary moments into cherished memories shared around the dinner table. So, embrace the simplicity of this recipe, let the cheesy goodness melt away any worries, and relish the goodness in every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Hamburger Casserole Baked Cheese is a versatile dish that welcomes your personal touch and creativity. So, don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and make it your own. Share the warmth and comfort of this casserole with your friends and family, and watch as it brings smiles and satisfaction to all. Let this recipe be a reminder that sometimes the simplest meals can bring the greatest joy.

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this cheesy Hamburger Casserole Baked Cheese, a hearty and flavorful classic that brings everyone to the table smiling.

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Prep Time20 min

Cook Time35 min

Total Time55 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (1 large casserole)

Ingredients

Main Components

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Kosher salt, to taste
1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 small onion, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) fire roasted diced tomatoes
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 red or green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook Pasta: 1. Boil a large pot of lightly salted water. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente following package directions. Drain well.
Sauté Beef and Vegetables: Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper halfway through cooking. Cook until vegetables are soft and beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Combine Flavorings: Lower skillet heat to low, then add minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add Sauces and Pasta: Combine tomato sauce, fire roasted diced tomatoes, and cooked macaroni in the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef mixture into the 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Bake and Finish: Cover baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbling.