Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor, this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner solution. Made with ground beef, tomatoes, pasta, and melted cheese, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.

If you’ve enjoyed our Baked Ziti or Ground Beef Pasta Skillet, this casserole delivers that same cozy appeal with cheesy, beefy goodness in every bite.

What is Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a baked pasta dish featuring ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and seasonings, all mixed with macaroni and topped with melted cheese. It’s like a deconstructed lasagna or beefy mac-and-cheese — easy, budget-friendly, and super satisfying. As the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach — and this casserole will definitely hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves cheesy pasta with beef.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance, refrigerate or freeze, and bake when needed.

Comfort in Every Bite: Warm, cheesy, and full of savory flavor.

If you liked our One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta, this baked version brings that same flavor with a crispy cheese topping.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Quick Overview

Cook the beef and onions, add tomato sauce and seasonings, simmer, mix with half-cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 (28 oz) can pureed tomatoes (or favorite pasta sauce)
• 1 (16 oz) box macaroni noodles
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook Onions and Beef: In a large pan, heat canola oil. Add diced onions and a pinch of salt; cook until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Season and Simmer: Add more salt to taste, then mix in oregano, garlic, paprika, and pureed tomatoes. Simmer on low for about 1 hour.
3. Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until halfway cooked. Drain and add to the tomato-beef mixture. (Use the full box for more servings, or half for a saucier dish.)
4. Assemble Casserole: Stir the pasta into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Mix in a handful of cheese or save all cheese for topping.
5. Bake or Refrigerate: Transfer to a large baking dish. Cover with foil. Bake immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.
6. Final Bake and Broil: When ready to serve, bake at 400°F until hot (about 45 minutes if cold). Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and broil until bubbly.

What to Serve with Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Green salad or steamed vegetables
• A glass of red wine or iced tea

Top Tips for Best Results

• Use Half-Cooked Pasta: Prevents it from turning mushy after baking.
• Simmer Sauce Fully: Enhances flavor and thickens the base.
• Broil Cheese at the End: Gives a golden, bubbly top.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled, unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Turkey or even ground chicken works well.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Can I make this without cheese?
Sure, it’ll still be delicious, but cheese adds extra richness.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Macaroni is classic, but penne or rotini are great too.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a family-favorite comfort dish with simple ingredients and big flavor. It’s warm, filling, and easy to prep ahead — perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or sharing with loved ones.