Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is a comforting dish that brings together the best of hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights since it requires minimal prep time and can feed the whole family. The creamy, cheesy goodness mixed with tender pasta makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ground beef!
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups pasta (like elbow macaroni or penne)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the uncooked pasta to the mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
Serve this delicious casserole warm right out of the oven. You can pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
How to Store Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
- For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you want a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the mixture.
- Use a mix of cheeses for varied texture and flavor.
Variation
You can switch up the meat by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, try substituting the meat with beans or lentils.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta will work well in this recipe.
How long does it take to bake from frozen?
If you’re baking it straight from the freezer, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
