There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole filled with hearty flavors. This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the perfect combination of beefy goodness, gooey cheese, and pasta, making it a family favorite. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. Serve it up for a cozy weeknight dinner, potluck, or any time you need a hearty, satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
- Easy & Quick: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a stress-free meal.
- Cheesy & Comforting: A rich, creamy cheese layer makes it irresistible.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and bake when ready.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Cheese grater (if shredding fresh cheese)
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix & Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the sour cream and heavy cream.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the beef mixture on top, followed by half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef, and cheese.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for extra comfort.
- A light soup, like tomato basil, makes a great starter.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
✅ Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
✅ Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
✅ Add More Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Q2: Can I freeze Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?
Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q3: What other cheeses can I use?
Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan for more flavor!
Conclusion: A Comfort Food Favorite!
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or bringing to a potluck. Try it out and enjoy a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
👉 Did you make this recipe? Share your photos and tag us on social media!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite! 😋
PrintCheesy Hamburger Casserole
There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole filled with hearty flavors. This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the perfect combination of beefy goodness, gooey cheese, and pasta, making it a family favorite. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. Serve it up for a cozy weeknight dinner, potluck, or any time you need a hearty, satisfying meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix & Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the sour cream and heavy cream.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the beef mixture on top, followed by half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef, and cheese.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
✅ Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
✅ Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
✅ Add More Veggies: Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.