Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Tast

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

This comforting baked dish layers seasoned ground beef and onion with tender pasta, tomatoes, and a creamy mushroom base. Topped with a generous blanket of melted cheddar, it features a balance of hearty flavor and creamy texture. Simple to prepare, it’s perfect for busy evenings, and leftovers reheat beautifully for easy meals. Feel free to incorporate extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Make ahead to save time, and enjoy a crowd-pleasing main that delivers cozy, familiar flavors family after family gathering.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:56:47 GMT
A cheesy hamburger casserole being served in a glass dish. Save
A cheesy hamburger casserole being served in a glass dish. | lilicooks.com

This cheesy hamburger casserole is pure comfort food and an absolute favorite on busy weeknights in my house. It is easy to make with simple ingredients, the flavors are familiar and satisfying, and that melty layer of cheese on top always brings everyone running to the table.

On a chilly evening last winter, I put this together after a long day when I needed dinner on the table fast. Everyone loved it so much it has become a regular request for family movie nights.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: One pound gives the casserole a hearty base Look for beef with moderate fat for best flavor
  • Onion chopped: Adds sweetness and depth Choose yellow or sweet onions for mellow flavor
  • Cooked pasta: Two cups adds substance Use any shape you like but short cut pasta works best
  • Diced tomatoes: Bring brightness and a little acidity Try to select a good brand with low sodium
  • Cream of mushroom soup: Provides creamy texture and blends all flavors Opt for low sodium for a healthier dish
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Gives gooey richness and classic cheesy appeal Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor or mix two kinds
  • Garlic powder: Boosts savory notes Go for fresh ground if you have it
  • Italian seasoning: Adds herby complexity Look for a blend with oregano basil and rosemary
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Taste the casserole before the final bake and adjust if needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meat and Onion:
Cook the ground beef and chopped onion together in a large skillet over medium heat Give the beef time to get browned and crumbly and make sure the onion becomes soft and translucent This step develops the base flavor for the entire dish
Drain and Mix in Flavor:
Once the meat mixture is cooked through drain off any excess grease Stir in the diced tomatoes cream of mushroom soup garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper Mix everything well so the flavors are evenly combined
Add the Pasta:
Fold the cooked pasta into your skillet Give it a gentle but thorough mix so the sauce coats each piece of pasta Even distribution here ensures each bite is full of flavor
Transfer and Top with Cheese:
Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish Spread it out evenly and then add a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top This forms the irresistible melty crust
Bake to Golden Perfection:
Place the dish in a preheated oven at three hundred fifty degrees and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes Watch for the cheese to get bubbly and golden and the casserole to get hot all the way through
Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out and let it cool just a few minutes before serving This helps the layers set so slicing is easy
A cheesy hamburger casserole with pasta and meat. Save
A cheesy hamburger casserole with pasta and meat. | lilicooks.com

Cheddar is my personal highlight in this recipe The way it bubbles and crisps on the edges makes this dish special I remember watching my kids sneak the crispy cheese from the corners before we even sat down together

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and use within three days For freezing wrap tightly and keep up to two months Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner casserole If cream of mushroom soup is not your favorite try cream of chicken or make a simple white sauce Mix in vegetables like bell pepper spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or cooked green beans for a complete meal A side of crusty bread to scoop it up is always welcome For a fun twist top individual portions with a dollop of sour cream or some chopped fresh herbs

A cheesy hamburger casserole with pasta and meat. Save
A cheesy hamburger casserole with pasta and meat. | lilicooks.com

Cultural Note

Hamburger casseroles are classic American comfort food They became popular in the mid twentieth century as shortcuts to feed busy families quickly Each family puts their own spin on it from the cheese to the seasonings and toppings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute another type of cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or combine cheeses for extra richness.

→ Which pasta shapes work best in this dish?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni hold the sauce well and bake evenly.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach blend nicely and boost nutrition and flavor.

→ Is it possible to prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking. Add a few minutes to baking time if using from cold.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store cooled portions in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to keep it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Tast

Cheddar, beef, and pasta unite for a creamy, family-friendly baked dinner everyone will love.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
30 min
Overall Time
45 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1 lb ground beef
02 1 onion, chopped
03 2 cups cooked pasta
04 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
05 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
06 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
07 1 tsp garlic powder
08 1 tsp Italian seasoning
09 Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink.

Step 03

Drain excess fat and stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 04

Add the cooked pasta to the mixture and mix well.

Step 05

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 06

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 07

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

  1. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
  2. This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
  3. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Greased baking dish
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy from cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup.
  • Contains gluten from the pasta and cream of mushroom soup.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 450
  • Fats: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Proteins: 25 g