Dive into the comforting embrace of this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, a dish that combines hearty ground beef, tender macaroni, and a duo of melted cheeses. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner, offering both satisfaction and simplicity. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry crowd or need a dish that can double as leftovers, this casserole has you covered.
A Go-To Meal for Busy Weeknights
This casserole is not just easy to make; it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. With its rich tomato base and savory beef, combined with the gooey goodness of cheddar and mozzarella, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Serve this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole hot from the oven, accompanied by a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish not only fills the belly but also warms the heart, making it a perfect choice for those evenings when you need a little extra comfort. Enjoy the rich layers of flavor and the satisfying crunch of the cheesy topping that make this casserole a true family favorite.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- One 28-ounce can pureed tomatoes, or your favorite sauce
- 16 ounces macaroni noodles
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Start with the Base:
- Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Sweat the onions until they are translucent.
- Cook the Beef:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break the beef into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, chopped garlic, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes or your chosen sauce into the skillet with the beef. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about an hour to develop the flavors.
- Prepare the Macaroni:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the macaroni noodles in a large pot of boiling water until they are half done. Drain the noodles then add them to the tomato and beef sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the beef and macaroni mixture to a large baking dish. If preparing in advance, you can cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to two days or freeze for a few weeks.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the casserole is hot, about 45 minutes if starting at room temperature.
- Add the Cheeses:
- Just before serving, remove the foil from the casserole. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.