This 5-star hamburger casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese into a delicious one-pan meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and quick to prepare.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. It’s a family-friendly option that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Comforting Layers of Flavor
This hamburger casserole brings together the rich taste of seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy cheese in a delightful combination. Each layer contributes to a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
The dish is designed to be both hearty and fulfilling, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. The blend of flavors melds beautifully, creating a comforting experience with every bite.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward, allowing you to whip it up even on the busiest of weeknights. Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, adding onions and garlic for a fragrant base.
Next, combine the essential ingredients, including diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup, to create a rich sauce. The addition of cooked pasta ties everything together, ensuring each serving is packed with flavor.
Baking to Perfection
Once combined, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top it off with shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the magic happens—baking the casserole allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to become bubbly and golden.
Covering the dish initially helps retain moisture, while the final uncovered bake gives that desirable crispy cheese topping. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely entice everyone to gather around the table.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a slice of garlic bread, adding a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a pop of color to the rustic presentation.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This hamburger casserole serves six, making it perfect for family meals or meal prep for the week. Each serving is approximately 350 calories, with a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
With 20 grams of protein per serving, it’s a filling option that keeps everyone satisfied. The combination of ingredients ensures a nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Customizing Your Casserole
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese or pasta to make the dish your own. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe that can be enjoyed in various ways, keeping mealtime exciting.
Delicious Hamburger Casserole
This hamburger casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef, cooked pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and milk. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g