Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish meal is easy to prepare and will satisfy the whole family. Serve it up for a cozy dinner or as a delicious potluck contribution that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the perfect comfort meal. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it's a family favorite!
The Perfect Weeknight Meal
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is your go-to recipe for busy weeknights when time is of the essence, yet you want to serve something hearty and satisfying. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can have a meal that combines rich flavors and delightful textures. It’s all about creating a dish that the entire family will love without spending hours in the kitchen. Just prep, mix, and bake for a winning dinner that will keep everyone happy and coming back for more.
Another advantage of this casserole is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on your family's preferences. Add in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutrition boost, or substitute the ground beef with turkey for a leaner option. Casseroles are forgiving, and this recipe encourages customization, making it easy to create a meal that caters to individual tastes and dietary needs.
Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s something undeniably comforting about a cheesy casserole, and this dish embodies that feeling perfectly. The melding of seasoned ground beef, melting cheese, and tender pasta creates a symphony of flavors that is both nostalgic and satisfying. Every bite takes you back to family dinners around the table, filled with laughter and joy. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm embrace, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra comfort in your life.
The creamy texture from the cream of mushroom soup combined with the cheese brings a luxurious element to the dish. It’s this creamy base that elevates the casserole, making it not just a meal, but a true comfort food experience. Serving this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole will surely impress your family and friends, and it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ideal for Potlucks and Gatherings
When planning a potluck or gathering, it can be challenging to figure out what to bring that is sure to please a crowd. This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is an excellent choice because it offers generous portions and a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s effortless to transport and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends and family without being stuck in the kitchen.
Moreover, this casserole is an easy dish to serve. Once baked to bubbly perfection, you can simply cut it into squares and serve it directly from the baking dish. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread, and you've got a complete meal. The versatile nature of this dish makes it a reliable option for any occasion, ensuring that you always have a winning recipe at your fingertips.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all ingredients before starting for an easier cooking experience.
Cooking Steps
Prepare the Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
Cook the Pasta
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, pasta, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for a Successful Casserole
To ensure your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole turns out perfectly every time, pay attention to the doneness of the pasta. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Overcooked pasta can lead to a mushy casserole, so avoid that mishap by sticking to package instructions and tasting along the way.
Make sure to season your ground beef adequately. This adds depth to the flavor of the casserole. A little garlic powder, onion powder, or even Worcestershire sauce can elevate the taste without complicating the recipe. Also, don’t hesitate to try different varieties of cheese to find your perfect blend—cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack can all bring different but delightful profiles to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
To complement your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, consider serving it with a light salad. A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the rich casserole. Alternatively, garlic bread or dinner rolls would be fantastic for soaking up the delectable cheesy goodness.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you can incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce into the casserole or serve it on the side. Not only does this add a kick, but it also allows guests to customize their servings according to their heat tolerance—making your meal more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftovers from this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to meld and improve overnight, making the next day’s leftovers just as delightful, if not better. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to help retain moisture and warm it in the oven for best results.
If you find yourself with more casserole than you can eat, consider freezing portions for future meals. Slice individual servings and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe containers. This dish freezes well, so on busy days, you can have a homemade meal ready to pop in the oven without any fuss.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish meal is easy to prepare and will satisfy the whole family. Serve it up for a cozy dinner or as a delicious potluck contribution that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, pasta, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g