Hamburger Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a hearty Hamburger Casserole to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the kitchen was filled with aromas that instantly brought me back to my childhood dinners around the table. It was one of those busy weeknights where time was short, but the desire for something delicious was high. The prospect of a one-dish meal that was both filling and flavorful was irresistible. As I layered the creamy pasta and savory beef, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a memory that we can recreate time and time again.

What to Gather for Hamburger Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a delightful Hamburger Casserole. Each component plays a vital role in the final dish, blending together to create a comforting and delicious meal. The magic happens when the savory elements combine with the creamy textures, making every bite a satisfying experience.

• 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred) – The heart of this casserole, providing protein and a rich flavor that forms the base of the dish.
• ½ cup diced onion – Adds sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (any color) – Brings a vibrant color and crunch, complementing the soft textures of the pasta.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness that fills your kitchen with irresistible scents.
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (drained) – Contributes moisture and a nice acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a thicker texture to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade) – Brings warmth and an herbal complexity that rounds out the dish.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the savory notes with its unique blend of flavors.
• 8 ounces dry shell pasta (½ box) – The perfect vehicle for carrying all the rich flavors of the casserole.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature and cut into cubes) – Adds creaminess and richness, making the dish indulgent.
• ½ cup sour cream – Contributes tanginess and creaminess, enhancing the overall texture.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅜ stick) – Adds richness and moisture, helping to bring the casserole together.
• ½ cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that everyone loves.
• ½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds stretchiness and a mild flavor that complements the cheddar.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh pop of flavor as a finishing touch.

Directions for Hamburger Casserole

Making a Hamburger Casserole is easier than you might think! With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve. Here’s how to do it perfectly:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an important step to ensure even cooking. While the oven heats up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Brown it until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beef to a paper towel-lined bowl. This helps drain the excess fat, keeping your casserole from getting greasy.
3. Add the diced onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing in the leftover fat for 2 to 3 minutes. The vegetables should soften slightly. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the dry shell pasta. Cook according to package instructions, then drain and transfer it to a large bowl.
6. To the drained pasta, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well until the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. You want to ensure every noodle gets covered!
7. Spread half of the creamy pasta mixture in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, making sure to distribute it evenly. Repeat with the remaining pasta and beef layers, finishing with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
8. Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. If you want a bubbly, golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
9. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Make It Your Own

There are countless ways to customize your Hamburger Casserole. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should last about 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked casserole if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Serve your casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
• Spice it Up: Add some heat with diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes mixed into the meat mixture.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding some gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.

How to Serve Hamburger Casserole

Serving your Hamburger Casserole can be as fun as making it. Here are some great ideas to elevate your meal:

• Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish, letting everyone scoop their own helping. It creates a fun, casual dining experience.
• Garnish: Top with fresh parsley or even some sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair with Sides: This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. The freshness helps balance the richness of the dish.
• Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game days. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in individual portions for easy reheating. It makes for a quick lunch the next day!
• Seasonal Touch: In the fall, serve with a warm butternut squash salad on the side for a seasonal twist.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Hamburger Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, making it a family favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together. I encourage you to try making it; you won’t be disappointed!

Hamburger Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Hamburger Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines savory ground beef, pasta, and gooey cheese into a satisfying dish. Make it tonight for a meal that warms the heart!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Ground Beef Lean preferred
• ½ cup Diced Onion
• ½ cup Diced Bell Pepper Any color
• 2 cloves Garlic Minced
• 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes Drained (1 can)
• 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Store-bought or homemade
• ½ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 8 ounces Dry Shell Pasta (½ box)
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese Room temperature and cut into cubes (1 brick)
• ½ cup Sour Cream
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (⅜ stick)
• ½ cup Freshly Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• ½ cup Freshly Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• Fresh Parsley Optional, for garnish

Equipment

• 9×13 Baking Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is an important step to ensure even cooking. While the oven heats up, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Brown it until it’s no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beef to a paper towel-lined bowl. This helps drain the excess fat, keeping your casserole from getting greasy.
3. Add the diced onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing in the leftover fat for 2 to 3 minutes. The vegetables should soften slightly. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef to the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the dry shell pasta. Cook according to package instructions, then drain and transfer it to a large bowl.
6. To the drained pasta, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well until the pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. You want to ensure every noodle gets covered!
7. Spread half of the creamy pasta mixture in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, making sure to distribute it evenly. Repeat with the remaining pasta and beef layers, finishing with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
8. Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. If you want a bubbly, golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
9. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: To make this casserole with potatoes, peel and cut 3 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes into ¼-inch slices and cook them before layering.

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Meet Lucy Bennett

I’m passionate about food that brings people together. I love creating recipes that are vibrant, flavorful, and easy to share. I’ve cooked and tested this dish in my own kitchen to make sure it works perfectly for you. Enjoy!