Save A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Growing up, hamburger casserole was a staple at our family dinner table: its irresistible combination of pasta, beef, and cheese brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil), 1/2 tsp paprika, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni:
- Boil macaroni in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add sauce ingredients:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine with pasta:
- Add cooked macaroni to skillet. Mix well to coat with sauce.
- Transfer and add cheese:
- Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save Making this casserole always brings back memories of easy weeknight meals and laughter around our cozy kitchen table.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, colander, mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat and milk, may contain soy. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g total fat, 42 g carbohydrates, 26 g protein
Save Serve this hamburger casserole hot for a fuss-free dinner that everyone will love and request again and again.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lean alternatives without compromising flavor.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, diced bell peppers are included optionally, and peas or corn can be stirred in before baking for added color and nutrition.
- → What type of pasta works best for this casserole?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but similar short pastas like shells or penne can also work well.
- → How should I cook the pasta for the casserole?
Cook pasta al dente in salted boiling water, then drain before combining with the sauce to avoid sogginess.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate; bake it fresh when ready to serve for best results.