Baked Cheesy Macaroni Hamburger

This baked cheesy macaroni hamburger casserole combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses for a warm and satisfying family dinner. The addition of tomatoes and sour cream lends a creamy tang that balances the richness. It’s a go-to recipe when you want something hearty, easy, and crowd-pleasing all in one dish.

I first made this casserole for a busy weeknight dinner, and it quickly became a family favorite that everyone requests whenever I need a reliable, no-fuss meal.

Ingredients

• One pound ground beef: provides rich flavor and protein, choose lean to reduce excess grease
• Two cups uncooked elbow macaroni: classic pasta shape that holds sauce well, pick a quality brand for tenderness
• One medium onion chopped: adds sweetness and depth, use fresh and firm onions for the best taste
• Two cloves garlic minced: boosts flavor with a savory punch, fresh garlic is always best
• One 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes with juices: adds acidity and brightness, look for good-quality canned tomatoes without added sugar
• One 10.5-ounce can condensed tomato soup: adds creaminess and tomato richness, classic comfort element
• Two cups shredded cheddar cheese: sharp and melts beautifully, select freshly shredded cheese when possible
• One cup mozzarella cheese: provides creamy stretchiness, low-moisture mozzarella works great here
• Half cup sour cream: adds tang and creaminess, use full-fat for best texture
• Half teaspoon paprika: adds subtle smoky warmth, try to find fresh ground paprika
• Half teaspoon Italian seasoning: brings herbal notes, fresh or dried blends both work well
• Salt and pepper to taste: essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors
• Two tablespoons olive oil: for sautéing, choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Prepare a large casserole dish by greasing it thoroughly to prevent sticking and to help the cheese brown nicely on top.

Cook the Macaroni:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about one minute less than the package instructions suggest. This ensures the pasta will finish cooking perfectly in the casserole without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook gently for about 4 to 5 minutes or until the onion is soft and translucent. This step builds the foundational flavor that will carry through the whole dish.

Brown the Ground Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a wooden spoon and brown it evenly. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings:

Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, condensed tomato soup, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat slightly and let this mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.

Mix in Pasta and Sour Cream:

Add the cooked elbow macaroni and sour cream to the skillet. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and creamy. This mixture will be the base of your casserole.

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. The cheese will create a golden, bubbly crust when baked.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese should melt completely and bubble with a golden brown color.

Rest Before Serving:

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps it set so it slices nicely and is easier to serve.

Save

One of my favorite ingredients here is the sour cream. Its tangy creaminess cuts through the richness of cheese and meat making every bite balanced and smooth. This recipe always reminds me of cozy family dinners when everyone gathered around the table asking for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked dish in portions using freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven or microwave to keep the texture intact.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for ground beef for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. You can substitute cream cheese or Greek yogurt to replace some or all of the sour cream to change the texture slightly. Gluten-free elbow macaroni works well if you need a gluten-free meal and adds no difference in taste.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to lighten the meal. For a heartier spread, steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans make a great side. A crusty bread roll is perfect for sopping up any leftover cheesy tomato sauce on your plate.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni works best for texture, penne or shells can be good alternatives if preferred.

→ How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Ensure you don’t overbake and that the tomato soup and sour cream mixture is well combined to maintain moisture.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It also freezes well for future meals.

→ What cheeses work best for the topping?

Cheddar and mozzarella provide a great melt and flavor, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or gouda.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms during the sautéeing stage boosts flavor and nutrition.

→ How spicy is the seasoning?

The paprika and Italian seasoning give a mild, warm flavor without heat, making it well-suited for all ages.