This comforting baked dish layers seasoned ground beef and onion with tender pasta, tomatoes, and a creamy mushroom base. Topped with a generous blanket of melted cheddar, it features a balance of hearty flavor and creamy texture. Simple to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings, and leftovers reheat beautifully for easy meals. Feel free to incorporate extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Make ahead to save time, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing main that delivers cozy, familiar flavors family after family gathering.This cheesy hamburger casserole is pure comfort food and an absolute favorite on busy weeknights in my house. It is easy to make with simple ingredients, the flavors are familiar and satisfying, and that melty layer of cheese on top always brings everyone running to the table.On a chilly evening last winter, I put this together after a long day when I needed dinner on the table fast. Everyone loved it so much it has become a regular request for family movie nights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: One pound gives the casserole a hearty base Look for beef with moderate fat for best flavor
- Onion chopped: Adds sweetness and depth Choose yellow or sweet onions for mellow flavor
- Cooked pasta: Two cups adds substance Use any shape you like but short cut pasta works best
- Diced tomatoes: Bring brightness and a little acidity Try to select a good brand with low sodium
- Cream of mushroom soup: Provides creamy texture and blends all flavors Opt for low sodium for a healthier dish
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives gooey richness and classic cheesy appeal Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor or mix two kinds
- Garlic powder: Boosts savory notes Go for fresh ground if you have it
- Italian seasoning: Adds herby complexity Look for a blend with oregano basil and rosemary
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Taste the casserole before the final bake and adjust if needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Brown the Meat and Onion:Cook the ground beef and chopped onion together in a large skillet over medium heat Give the beef time to get browned and crumbly and make sure the onion becomes soft and translucent This step develops the base flavor for the entire dishDrain and Mix in Flavor:Once the meat mixture is cooked through drain off any excess grease Stir in the diced tomatoes cream of mushroom soup garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper Mix everything well so the flavors are evenly combinedAdd the Pasta:Fold the cooked pasta into your skillet Give it a gentle but thorough mix so the sauce coats each piece of pasta Even distribution here ensures each bite is full of flavorTransfer and Top with Cheese:Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish Spread it out evenly and then add a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top This forms the irresistible melty crustBake to Golden Perfection:Place the dish in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes Watch for the cheese to get bubbly and golden and the casserole to get hot all the way throughRest and Serve:Take the casserole out and let it cool just a few minutes before serving This helps the layers set so slicing is easyHamburger casseroles are classic American comfort food They became popular in the mid twentieth century as shortcuts to feed busy families quickly Each family puts their own spin on it from the cheese to the seasonings and toppingsCan I substitute another type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or combine cheeses for extra richness.→ Which pasta shapes work best in this dish?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni hold the sauce well and bake evenly.→ Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach blend nicely and boost nutrition and flavor.→ Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Add a few minutes to baking time if using from cold.→ How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.→ Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to keep it suitable for gluten-free diets