This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheesy goodness in one pot! It’s perfect for a quick family meal.
I love how this casserole comes together so fast—just cook, mix, and bake! Plus, it’s always a hit with the kids, especially when it’s bubbly and cheesy. Who can resist that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: They’re perfect for this casserole because they soak up all the flavors. You can substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne if you prefer something different.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef, but you could also swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or protein crumbles!
Marinara Sauce: This gives the dish a rich flavor, but you can use homemade sauce, or even salsa if you want a kick. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses can add a nice twist. For a healthier option, use reduced-fat cheese.
Cottage Cheese: It adds creaminess, but if you’re not a fan, just leave it out or replace it with Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Has Lots of Flavor?
Flavor is key in this casserole, and the seasoning plays a big role. Here’s how to make sure it’s top-notch:
- Don’t skip the sauté process for the beef and onion. Browning the beef gives deep flavor.
- Simmer the sauce with the beef! This really helps meld those tastes together.
- Season well! Taste your mixture before baking. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Opt for freshly grated cheese when possible—it melts better and has a richer taste.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces egg noodles (about 3 cups)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 25 minutes to bake it. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks!
2. Cook the Noodles:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion (if you’re using it). Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
4. Mix in the Sauce and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the marinara sauce along with the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to bring all those flavors together.
5. Combine Everything:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles with the beef sauce mixture. Add cottage cheese or ricotta if you want an extra creamy texture. Gently mix until everything is well combined.
6. Layer the Casserole:
Transfer half of the noodle and beef mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Then, add the rest of the noodle mixture and finish with the remaining cup of cheddar cheese sprinkled on top.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and a little golden on top.
8. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you’d like, then dig in and enjoy!
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is not only delicious but also makes for great leftovers, so feel free to make it ahead of time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Casserole?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance! Just assemble it but do not bake. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread also makes a great addition for a comforting touch!
