Classic Hamburger Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Looking for a hearty dish that the whole family will love? Meet the Classic Hamburger Casserole. It's a satisfying blend of savory beef, pasta, and cheese that’s perfect for any weeknight. With just a few steps, you'll have dinner on the table in no time.

Ingredients for Classic Hamburger Casserole

Ground beef is the star of the show, providing that rich and hearty base. Choose lean beef to keep things on the healthier side. Onion and green bell pepper add a fresh, aromatic layer to the dish, while garlic gives it that punchy flavor we all love. The tomato sauce brings everything together with its tangy sweetness. Elbow macaroni is the perfect pasta for this casserole, holding the sauce well and creating a satisfying texture. Cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese melt into a gooey, savory topping that’s simply irresistible. Finally, oregano and basil add a hint of Mediterranean flair.

Tips & Tricks

  • Browning the beef properly is key to building flavor. Don’t rush this step.
  • If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.
  • For a slightly healthier version, swap out half of the ground beef with ground turkey.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread also complements it perfectly, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Feel free to use any short pasta you have on hand, like penne or fusilli.

Classic Hamburger Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's hot and ready by the time your casserole goes in. Next, take a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and let it cook until it's nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat; we want flavor, not grease!

Once your beef is browned, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté them together, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent. This usually takes about five minutes. Now, season the mix with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Give it all a good stir to make sure the spices are well distributed.

Add the tomato sauce into your skillet, mix everything well, and let it simmer for about five minutes. This lets the flavors meld beautifully. While that’s happening, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. You don’t want it too soft since it will continue cooking in the oven.

Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture and then transfer everything into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan on top. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Once done, take it out and let it cool slightly before serving. This gives the casserole time to set, making it easier to serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • A comforting combination of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
  • Easy to adjust to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix well.
5. Stir in tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture, then transfer to a greased casserole dish.
8. Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!