This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is all about comfort! With ground beef, pasta, and plenty of gooey cheese, it’s a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly.
You can’t go wrong when cheese is involved, right? I find myself going back for seconds (and maybe thirds). Serve it with a side salad for a fun meal!
I love how simple this casserole is to throw together. It takes just one pot, so clean-up is a breeze. Perfect for a busy night when I need something tasty without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or ground chicken works well too! You can even try plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Egg Noodles: I love using egg noodles for their texture, but you can swap them for gluten-free pasta or even use spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a lighter touch.
Marinara or Spaghetti Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own! If you’re short on time, any jarred sauce will do. For a twist, try using taco sauce or enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little heat. If you want it dairy-free, there are many vegan cheese options available.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare a Casserole Without Making a Mess?
A casserole should be hearty but easy to prepare. Here are some tips to keep things tidy:
- Use a large skillet to cook your beef, so there’s plenty of room to stir without spilling.
- After draining the beef, quickly add the sauce to the same pan. This reduces dishes since you’ll mix everything in one place.
- When combining the noodles and beef mixture, use a large mixing bowl to avoid overflow. A spatula also helps in folding the ingredients together neatly.
- Greasing the baking dish helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
These steps can save you time and effort in the kitchen while you whip up this delicious casserole!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles or wide egg noodles
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil (if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then about 35 minutes to bake. So, in under an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Going:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the chopped onion if you’re using it. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion looks soft. If there’s a lot of grease, carefully drain it off to keep your casserole from being too oily.
3. Add Flavor:
Once your beef is nicely cooked, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, pour in the marinara or spaghetti sauce. Give it a good stir and let it heat through for a couple of minutes.
4. Cook the Noodles:
While the beef is cooking, boil the egg noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. When they’re tender but slightly firm (that’s called al dente!), drain them well.
5. Mix It All Together:
In a big bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef sauce mixture. Pour in the water or beef broth and mix everything up until it’s blended well.
6. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and scoop half of the noodle and beef mixture into it. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top to add that gooey deliciousness!
7. Add the Rest:
Now, pour the remaining noodle and beef mixture over the cheese, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with the rest of the cheddar cheese so it gets all melty and appetizing.
8. Bake It:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This helps everything to warm through nicely.
9. Remove the Foil:
After 25 minutes, take the foil off and continue baking for another 10 minutes. This will let the cheese get bubbly and slightly golden.
10. Time to Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let your casserole sit for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. This lets it hold its shape and makes serving easier.
Enjoy this cheesy, hearty casserole as a comforting meal with a side of salad or steamed veggies!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply replace the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Check the sauce and cheese labels to ensure they don’t contain gluten as well. Enjoy a delicious meal without the gluten!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave portions or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
