This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for busy weeknights. It features ground beef, creamy cheese, and pasta all baked together for a delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are perfect here due to their texture. If you can’t find them, use any pasta you have, like shells or rotini—they’ll still work great in this casserole!
Ground Beef: I love using beef for its flavor, but turkey or even plant-based crumbles can work if you prefer a lighter option or are going meatless.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add depth to the dish. If you’re in a rush, onion powder (1 teaspoon) and garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can substitute, but fresh is always best!
Spaghetti Sauce: A jar of pasta sauce makes this easy, but feel free to use homemade or any marinara you love. For a kick, try adding crushed red pepper flakes!
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a good substitute if you want a lighter version, or skip it entirely if you prefer a less creamy texture.
How Do You Get the Cheese Extra Melty and Delicious?
Getting that gooey cheese layer on top is essential! Ensure you use fresh shredded cheese—it melts better than pre-shredded options. Here are my tips:
- Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top right before baking.
- For an even fancier finish, add some extra cheese 5 minutes before it’s done—let that bubble up!
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking, as this helps the cheese set a bit.
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 ounces egg noodles (about 3 cups uncooked)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, making the total time around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and simple meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them well and set them aside for later.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Flavor:
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook them together until the onion is soft and translucent, which will take roughly 5 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the spaghetti sauce and Italian seasoning. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper to taste! Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
6. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef sauce mixture, and sour cream if you’re using it. Mix everything well until it’s nicely combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer this tasty mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is where the magic starts to happen!
8. Add Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The more cheese, the better, right?
9. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This is the best part—watching that cheese get all gooey!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven (careful, it’s hot!). Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy comfort food with your family or friends!
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting hamburger casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat Egg Noodles Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat egg noodles are a great substitute and will add extra fiber to your dish. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It makes for quick reheating—just pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking! Just assemble it in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as instructed!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to add veggies for extra nutrition! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can mix in nicely with the meat and sauce. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for the best flavor!
