This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with ground beef, pasta, and lots of gooey cheese. It’s perfect for a family dinner!
You won’t believe how quickly it comes together—just cook, mix, and bake! I love the cheesy goodness that makes everyone ask for seconds. Who can resist that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Noodles: These are perfect for this casserole, but you can substitute with other pasta like rotini or penne if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and fat. For a leaner option, you can switch to ground turkey or chicken. It still tastes delicious!
Spaghetti Sauce: A jarred sauce saves time, but homemade sauce works wonderfully too. Feel free to use marinara or any pasta sauce you enjoy!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute and adds protein too. You could also skip it if you prefer a tomato-forward flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for the strong flavor. If you’re a cheese lover, try mixing it with Monterey Jack for variety! Vegan cheese is an option for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but there are some tips to make sure it turns out great. Here’s how:
- Use a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef over medium heat. If it’s too high, it may burn before it cooks through.
- Break apart the meat as it cooks with a spatula for even browning.
- Drain excess fat after browning to keep the dish lighter.
Following these tips guarantees flavorful and well-cooked beef for your casserole! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (if cooking onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll bake it for 20-25 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be ready when you need it!
2. Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil water in a large pot and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain them and set aside.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter (if you’re using onions). Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Add Spaghetti Sauce
Stir in the jar of spaghetti sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to warm through. If desired, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles, beef and sauce mixture, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
8. Bake It
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, comforting Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind it may cook up a bit differently, so ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Vegetarian Option?
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP). Just sauté them well and mix in just like the meat!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in the oven, covered with foil to keep it moist.
