Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

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Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or casual weeknight meals. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that melts beautifully throughout the casserole. It is a versatile recipe, easy to prepare, and satisfying for both kids and adults. The combination of flavors, textures, and aromas creates a hearty meal that everyone will love, making it a go-to dish for busy evenings or for gatherings when you want something simple yet flavorful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (rotini, elbow, or your preferred shape)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping
  • Breadcrumbs for a crunchy crust
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole pan.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. While the meat and onions are cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked beef and onion mixture, and the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese and breadcrumbs on top for a golden crust.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
  10. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for a Perfect Casserole

To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding garlic, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the ground beef and onions while cooking. Using a combination of cheeses, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, adds depth and richness to the sauce. For extra creaminess, you can stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the cheese sauce. The choice of pasta is flexible, but rotini, penne, or elbows hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is coated with cheesy goodness.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. It can also be served as a main course for a family dinner or as a hearty lunch the next day. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave. The flavors often improve after a day as the pasta absorbs the sauce.

Variations

For a twist on the classic, try adding cooked bacon bits or sliced olives for extra flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Spicy enthusiasts can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For a creamy, cheesy topping, mix extra cheese with a bit of mayonnaise before spreading over the casserole to create a golden crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is an easy, comforting, and customizable dish that brings warmth to any table. It requires minimal prep, uses common ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Its creamy, cheesy texture paired with tender pasta and savory beef makes it irresistible. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this casserole is a reliable go-to that satisfies everyone.

Final Thoughts

This casserole embodies the best of home cooking: simple, hearty, and comforting. Its combination of ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese makes it a favorite for all ages. Preparing it is straightforward, and the leftovers are just as delicious as the freshly baked version. Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a recipe that will likely become a staple in your kitchen, offering a tasty, satisfying meal whenever you need it.

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