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Easy Hamburger Casserole Recipes

Easy Hamburger Casserole Recipes
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A comforting and easy-to-make hamburger casserole that combines ground beef, pasta or potatoes, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a hearty family meal that’s quick to prepare and customizable to your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb ground beef

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauces and Liquids

  • 1 can (14 oz) tomatoes or tomato sauce

Base Carbohydrates

  • 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni) or diced potatoes

Cheese

  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a combination)

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mixed Italian seasoning)

Optional Variations

  • Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach (for vegetable boost)
  • Diced jalapeños or chili flakes (for spicy kick)
  • Gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice/spiralized zucchini (for low-carb or gluten-free)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the casserole light and avoid greasiness.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add finely chopped onions and garlic to the skillet with the beef, cooking until translucent and fragrant to build a deep savory flavor.
  3. Combine with Sauce and Pasta: Stir in your chosen tomato sauce or canned tomatoes, along with cooked pasta or diced potatoes. Mix thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Cheese: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Top generously with shredded cheese to create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.
  5. Bake Until Hot and Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Let the casserole rest briefly before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Use fresh onions and garlic whenever possible for better flavor than dried powders.
  • Boil pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy casserole; it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • Incorporate herbs like oregano or basil for deeper flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Combine different cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, for gooey and flavorful complexity.
  • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, making it easier to portion and letting flavors meld.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave covered to retain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: easy hamburger casserole, ground beef casserole, weeknight dinner, cheesy casserole, family friendly, quick dinner, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/easy-hamburger-casserole-recipes/