Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
A comforting and delicious one-dish meal combining ground beef, pasta, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use extra lean for less fat.
- 2 cups elbow macaroni Cooked and drained.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Reserve half for topping.
- 1 cup diced onion Add more for stronger flavor if desired.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced for best flavor.
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes With juice.
- 1 cup beef broth Low sodium if preferred.
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian herbs Use a mix or fresh for better flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, diced tomatoes (juice included), and beef broth. Mix thoroughly.
Cooking
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs; bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheese until melted.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also use Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese for a twist. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.