Irresistible Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Recipe to Try Now Recipe
This irresistibly cheesy hamburger casserole combines savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and rich cheddar cheese, baked to golden perfection. An easy, comforting one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Author: Hannah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes with their juice, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season and Simmer: Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low to allow flavors to meld.
- Melt Half the Cheese: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the hot mixture and stir until melted and evenly distributed.
- Transfer and Top: Pour the mixture into an oven-safe casserole dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can add ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese along with the broth.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free macaroni can be used as a substitution depending on dietary needs.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheesy casserole, hamburger casserole, ground beef pasta bake, comfort food, family dinner recipe