Hamburger Casserole Recipe
This easy hamburger casserole recipe is cheesy, comforting, and endlessly customizable—perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef (80/20)
- 2 cups 200g uncooked elbow macaroni or shell pasta
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup 240ml tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup 120ml beef broth or water
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups 170g shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup 60g mozzarella cheese
- Optional: 1/4 cup 25g grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
- Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
- Add cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Transfer to a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese alternatives for dietary needs.
- This dish freezes well—cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 3 months.