ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients for Easy Hamburger Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef: Lean or regular ground beef works well.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a slight sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: For an extra punch of flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For a touch of herbaceous flavor.
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta for this casserole, though other shapes can work too.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that melty, cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper: To season the beef and sauce.
How to Make Easy Hamburger Casserole
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease.
- Add the onion and garlic: Stir the diced onion and garlic into the ground beef, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onion softens.
- Make the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the casserole: In the greased casserole dish, mix together the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet: For browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Large pot: To cook the pasta.
- Casserole dish (9×13 inch): The perfect size for this recipe.
- Mixing spoon or spatula: To combine everything.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Pre-cooked pasta: Save time by cooking your pasta ahead of time. You can store cooked pasta in the fridge for up to two days before adding it to the casserole.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just extend the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking from chilled.
- Use frozen veggies: For added convenience and nutrition, toss in a bag of frozen mixed vegetables when browning the beef.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Change up the pasta: While elbow macaroni is a classic choice, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or bowties.
- Switch up the cheese: For a twist on the flavor, try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese.
- Add veggies: This recipe is versatile enough to add vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onions and garlic for a nutrient boost.
- Make it healthier: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover hamburger casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Food Pairings
This Easy Hamburger Casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch. For a drink, a cold soda, iced tea, or even a light beer would complement this comfort food classic perfectly.
ADVERTISEMENT
