Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy hamburger casserole. It’s like a big, cozy hug on a plate! This dish is a staple in my home, especially on those busy weeknights when I need something quick yet satisfying. The hearty combination of ground beef, pasta, and gooey cheese comes together to create a meal that everyone loves. And the best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for even the most novice cooks. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring the family together around the dinner table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to for filling, delicious meals that leave everyone smiling!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (any shape you like!)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works great!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
These ingredients come together to make a delightful and hearty dish that’s super easy to prepare. I love how versatile this list is, so don’t stress if you want to mix things up a bit!
How to Prepare Hamburger Casserole
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious hamburger casserole! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each step, so you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Ready? Let’s do this!
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and delicious. While that oven is warming up, you can get started on the next steps!
Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking. You want that lovely beefy aroma filling your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Add Seasonings and Mix
Once the beef and onion are browned, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure those flavors are evenly distributed. This is where your casserole starts to get some serious flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth
Next, stir in the can of diced tomatoes and the beef broth. Mix it all together really well to create a nice, juicy base for your casserole. This mixture should be looking pretty tasty at this point—go ahead, take a quick taste if you want!
Combine with Pasta
Now, it’s time to add the uncooked pasta. Toss it in and stir everything together until the pasta is well mixed with the beefy goodness. This is the heart of your casserole, and it will soak up all those flavors as it cooks!
Transfer and Bake
Carefully transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top—because, let’s be honest, cheese makes everything better! Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Make sure to check halfway through; give it a little stir to ensure the cheese gets all melty and delicious.
Cool and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven and looks all golden and bubbly, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This not only helps it set a bit but also makes it easier to scoop out those perfect portions. Then, dig in and enjoy your warm, comforting creation!
Tips for Success
To make your hamburger casserole a total hit, here are some handy tips! First, remember to stir the casserole halfway through cooking. This helps the cheese melt evenly and prevents any sticking. Also, when choosing your pasta, opt for a shape that holds sauce well—like shells or elbows—so every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be shy about seasoning; taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. And if you want to mix it up, feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and color!
Variations of Hamburger Casserole Recipes
One of the best things about this hamburger casserole is how customizable it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. For a veggie boost, try adding some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini to the mix. If you’re a cheese lover, experiment with different types like mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also swap out the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk nutrition! Each serving of this hearty hamburger casserole is approximately 400 calories, with about 20g of fat and 25g of protein. You’ll also find around 30g of carbohydrates and just 3g of sugar. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you choose to use, so feel free to adjust for your dietary needs. It’s a satisfying meal that balances flavor and nutrition beautifully!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can even try using a plant-based meat for a vegetarian alternative!
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a different flavor. Just make sure it’s a liquid to keep the pasta cooking properly.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble your casserole ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Definitely! You can freeze it either before baking or after. If freezing before, just make sure to cover it well. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen—just add a bit more time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Kid-friendly flavors that even the pickiest eaters will love.
- One-pot meal means less cleanup—yay!
- Great for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customizable to fit your family’s taste preferences.
For more delicious casserole recipes, check out this link!
Additionally, if you’re looking for ground beef recipes, this one is a must-try!
Print
Hamburger Casserole Recipes: 5 Steps to Easy Comfort Food
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A hearty and easy hamburger casserole that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese in a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups uncooked pasta
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add the uncooked pasta and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you like.
- For extra flavor, add your favorite herbs.
- Make sure to stir the casserole halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: hamburger casserole recipes
