Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Cheesy Hamburger Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, reminiscent of Hamburger Helper but with the added benefit of knowing exactly what’s in it. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, and the best part? The kids will absolutely love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a hit for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, which is a blessing on hectic days. Second, it uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can adjust to your liking. Finally, the combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese makes for a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander
- Large baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- One 28-ounce can pureed tomatoes, or your favorite sauce
- 16-ounce box macaroni noodles
- 1/2 cup each grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a three-fingered pinch of salt, cooking until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with another pinch of salt, pepper, oregano, garlic, and paprika.
- Once the beef is fully browned, stir in the pureed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about an hour.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the macaroni noodles in a large pot of boiling water until they are half done. Drain and add them to the tomato-beef mixture.
- Stir everything together, then taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Stir in the grated cheeses.
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish and cover with foil. It can be refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for a few weeks.
- To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If the casserole is cold, bake it for about 45 minutes until it’s piping hot.
- Just before serving, remove the foil, sprinkle the top with additional cheese, and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Success
- For more flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- If you prefer a meatier dish, use only half of the macaroni noodles.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to make serving easier.
Additional Tips and Variations
You can easily customize this casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, try using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella. This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover meats or veggies you have on hand.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values will vary based on ingredients used, an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving includes:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Simply wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness are sure to win over your family and friends. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your delicious results. Enjoy!
