This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm and hearty dish made with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s like a big hug in a bowl!
No one can resist that cheesy goodness! I love making this on busy nights because it’s super simple. Just cook, mix, and bake. Comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken can be substituted. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If onions aren’t your thing, you can leave them out or use chopped green onions for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a fantastic aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the base for the creamy sauce. If you’re avoiding processed foods, you can make a homemade version with mushrooms, cream, and broth. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup works just as well!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. You can mix it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added zing if you like a little heat.
How Do I Get the Cheese Extra Gooey?
To achieve that deliciously gooey cheese topped on your casserole, follow these steps:
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded. Fresh cheese melts better!
- Layer cheese both inside the casserole and on top before baking. This ensures cheesy goodness throughout.
- Consider broiling the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end to slightly brown the cheese for extra flavor. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
- Cooking oil or spray, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at about 45-50 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your casserole bakes evenly once it’s ready to go in.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned all over, make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir them in and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and milk. Mix well until everything is combined. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley if you’re using them. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to warm through.
5. Combine with Pasta and Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and mix everything together until well coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into your greased 9×9-inch baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Bake!
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This waiting time makes it easier to serve. Dish it out and enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as these meats can be drier than beef, so you might want to add a bit more moisture with extra milk or a splash of broth.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also add in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or bake it in the oven until heated through. For best results, cover it with foil to keep the cheese from over-browning.
