Name: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian herbs

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate weeknight comfort food, bringing together savory ground beef, tender pasta, and lots of gooey cheddar cheese in one irresistibly cozy bake. Its layers of bold flavors and creamy textures make this casserole a family favorite, and it’s so simple you’ll find yourself coming back to it anytime you need an easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on heartiness or taste. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or planning for delicious leftovers, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole never disappoints!

Cheesy One Pot Beef and Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Cheesy Hamburger Casserole such a winner? It’s the straightforward, familiar ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one brings something special, whether it’s depth, creaminess, or a pop of color—you’ll see how they all meld into a beautiful, cheesy bake.

Lean ground beef: Provides the savory, satisfying base for the casserole and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Elbow macaroni: Classic casserole pasta that gets perfectly tender and holds onto all that cheesy sauce.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The magic ingredient for meltiness and sharp, tangy flavor.
Diced onion: Sweetens and enhances the casserole with a subtle savory crunch.
Garlic (minced): Adds a kick of garlicky goodness throughout the dish.
Diced tomatoes (with juice): Give moisture, acidity, and extra color to the casserole.
Beef broth: Infuses every bite with deep, meaty flavor and keeps things succulent.
Salt: Brings all the ingredients together and heightens their flavors.
Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
Italian herbs: Lends an aromatic, herby note that brightens and balances the richness.

How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be ready and waiting as you assemble the casserole. Getting the temperature just right ensures perfectly melted cheese and a lightly golden top.

Step 2: Brown the Beef, Onions, and Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until no pink remains, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté together until the onions turn lightly golden and everything is marvelously fragrant—your kitchen will start to smell amazing!

Step 3: Add Pasta, Tomatoes, and Broth

Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni straight into the skillet, followed by the can of diced tomatoes (juice included) and the beef broth. Stir it all together thoroughly; the pasta will soak up the savory juices and soften as it cooks.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and Italian herbs over the mixture, then bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, dial down the heat to low. Let it simmer for a few minutes so those flavors meld and the macaroni starts absorbing all that deliciousness.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Time for the moment of truth: fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently as it melts into the mixture, creating creamy pockets throughout the casserole. This step gives Cheesy Hamburger Casserole its signature lusciousness.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe dish and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese generously over the top. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes—until it’s bubbly around the edges and irresistibly golden on top. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then dive in!

How to Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Garnishes

A little fresh garnish goes a long way in brightening up Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Think of sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or green onions over the top just before serving. If you love a little zip, a few sliced jalapeños or a dusting of red pepper flakes add color and personality.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a superstar on its own, but it pairs perfectly with simple sides. I love serving it with a crisp garden salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, or some roasted broccoli or green beans for extra freshness. Warm, buttery garlic bread on the side turns it into a comfort food feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Take Cheesy Hamburger Casserole beyond the basics by baking individual portions in ramekins for a dinner party, or scooping it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun twist. You can even ladle it over baked potatoes or serve in bread bowls for a playful, crowd-pleasing presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a lifesaver on busy days. Let it cool completely, then transfer any extras to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—it reheats wonderfully and somehow tastes even better the next day!

Freezing

Need to make this meal stretch longer? Assemble and bake the casserole, then let it cool. Slice into portions and wrap tightly or freeze in freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to 2 months, making weeknight dinners feel effortless.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the microwave, covered, until heated through—give it a stir halfway so the cheese melts evenly. For bigger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until steaming hot. If it seems a little dry, a splash of beef broth or water livens it right back up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, rotini, penne, or shells also hold up beautifully. Just check for similar cook times and adjust if necessary.

Is it possible to make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to monitor the cook time, as some gluten-free varieties may cook a little faster or slower than regular macaroni.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Definitely—ground turkey or chicken both work well and make the casserole a little lighter. You may want to add an extra dash of seasoning since these meats are milder than beef.

What cheese works best in the casserole besides cheddar?

Try mixing in mozzarella for extra stretch, Monterey Jack for creaminess, or even a bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to experiment—Cheesy Hamburger Casserole plays nicely with any melty cheese.

Can I assemble Cheesy Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just add a couple extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that tastes like a big cheesy hug, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is calling your name. I can’t wait for you to make it and share it with the people you love—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular favorite at your table!