Name: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
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

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Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I first tried it during a busy weeknight when I needed something quick yet delicious, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. This dish combines hearty ground beef with gooey cheeses and tender elbow macaroni, all smothered in a zesty tomato sauce. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave comfort food.

Reasons to try it

This casserole is not just tasty; it’s also a fantastic budget-friendly meal. With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can whip up a dish that serves a crowd. It’s completed in about an hour, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Plus, kids love it! The cheesy goodness usually wins over even the pickiest eaters.

“This casserole is a game-changer for my family! Quick, filling, and full of flavor, we all loved it!” – Jessica, satisfied home cook.

Preparing Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake

Making this casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by browning the ground beef and mixing it with a savory tomato sauce, then combine that with cooked elbow macaroni and a blend of cheeses. Finally, after baking until bubbly, you’ll be ready to dive in! Here’s what you’ll do:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the ground beef and add the aromatics.
Simmer with your canned tomatoes and seasoning.
Cook macaroni and mix everything together.
Bake and enjoy!

What you’ll need

Gather these ingredients to create your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake:

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

Feel free to swap in ground turkey or omit dairy for a lighter or lactose-free version.

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, making sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to combine flavors.
Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the beef mixture, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Ensure it is mixed well.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, making sure it’s evenly spread. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burning yourself!

Best ways to enjoy it

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is delicious on its own, but for a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. You could also try pairing it with steamed veggies or a side of coleslaw for added crunch.

Storage and reheating tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven until bubbly again. It’s best to avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crispy topping!

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to make your casserole even better:

Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley or basil before serving for color and flavor.
Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in some diced green chilies or corn for a southwestern flair.
Pasta Choice: While elbow macaroni is classic, spiral or penne pasta can provide a nice variation.

Creative twists

There are numerous ways you can give this casserole a unique touch:

Veggie Additions: Stir in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Swap the Cheese: Experiment with pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Healthy Substitutes: Use whole wheat pasta or low-fat cheeses to lighten it up without sacrificing taste.

Your questions answered

What is the prep time for this dish?

Prep time for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is about 15 minutes, with a total cook time of around 30-35 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well! Make sure to allow it to cool completely first. Then store in an airtight container. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight before baking.

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is a delightful way to bring comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. Create your own memories with this recipe and enjoy the cheesy goodness that everyone will love!