Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

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why make this recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together ground beef, pasta, and lots of cheese in one delicious meal. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a simple dinner option. This casserole is easy to prepare and makes great leftovers, which saves you time on future meals. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

how to make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Mix well.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top before serving.

how to store Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.

tips to make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.
  • Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a crunchy topping before baking.

variation

You can easily switch up the cheese. Try using pepper jack for some heat or go with a mix of different cheeses for a richer flavor. You can also replace elbow macaroni with another type of pasta, like penne or rotini.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it well.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a healthier alternative.

3. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of beans, lentils, or extra vegetables for a delicious vegetarian casserole.

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