Hamburger Casserole is a hearty, delicious dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce, baked to perfection with melted cheese on top. It’s a classic comfort food that satisfies cravings and brings families together at the dinner table.
Hamburger Casserole:
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or Sunday dinners, this casserole is filling, affordable, and easy to prepare. Its layers of savory beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese make it a dish everyone loves.
History of Hamburger Casserole:
Casseroles became popular in America during the 20th century as families sought affordable, one-dish meals. Ground beef, widely available and budget-friendly, became a staple in these recipes. The hamburger casserole quickly emerged as a favorite, especially in the Midwest, where hearty meals were essential.
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Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook onion and garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix cooked pasta into the beef mixture.
- Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Make it creamier by stirring in sour cream.
- Leftovers reheat well for lunch.
- Substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Tips for Casserole:
- Cook pasta al dente since it will bake further.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for later.
- Serve with garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.
FAQ’s for Hamburger:
Q1: Can I make Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Q2: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I use different cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend.
Q4: How do I prevent it from drying out?
Cover with foil if baking longer or add a little broth to the sauce.
Q5: Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely, most kids love pasta and cheese combinations.
Conclusion:
Hamburger Casserole is a classic comfort food that combines simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful dish. With its gooey cheese topping, savory beef, and tender pasta, it’s a recipe that never disappoints. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is a must-have in your recipe collection.