Description
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish featuring ground beef, pasta, and a blend of cheeses, all baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- While the meat mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-9 minutes).
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat mixture. Stir gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Add in the milk and half of the cheddar cheese (1 cup). Mix until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Pour the pasta and meat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes