Name: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with herbs; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

It’s that time of day when your stomach growls louder than your kids’ laughter, and you realize you’ve got a busy weeknight ahead. After a long day, all you want is a comforting meal that takes minimal effort but packs maximum flavor. Enter the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake for Busy Weeknights—a dish that will have your family swooning and begging for seconds.

Picture this: a bubbling casserole topped with golden, melted cheese, savory ground beef, and tender pasta dancing together in perfect harmony. The aroma fills your kitchen, making it feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether it’s a crazy Tuesday or a laid-back Sunday, this dish is your new go-to for feeding the crew without losing your sanity.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This cheesy delight is incredibly easy to whip up after a long day
The rich flavors will make you feel like a gourmet chef without hours in the kitchen
Its vibrant colors create an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for impressing guests
Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever ingredients you have on hand

Family gatherings often end with compliments flying around like confetti when I serve this casserole.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for flavor without excess grease; it’s the star of this dish.
Elbow Macaroni: A classic choice that holds onto the sauce beautifully; use whole grain for added nutrition.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds the best flavor; don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s called cheesy casserole for a reason!
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes with herbs for extra flavor; they’ll lend moisture and richness.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and minced garlic bring depth to the dish; sauté until fragrant for maximum impact.
Beef Broth: It enhances flavor without being overpowering; use low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds warmth and complexity to each bite.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s natural flavors; adjust to taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, gather all ingredients to streamline your cooking process.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Brown the Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes.

Add in Other Ingredients: Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, elbow macaroni, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer while stirring occasionally.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Once combined well, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly so every bite gets that cheesy goodness.

Toss on the Cheese!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly : Place in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let it cool slightly before serving so no one burns their tongue!

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake is more than just comfort food; it’s an experience that brings families together after long days apart. Enjoy every delightful bite!

You Must Know

This cheesy hamburger casserole bake is a lifesaver for busy weeknights
It combines all the comforting flavors of a classic hamburger in a quick, easy-to-prepare dish
The aroma of melted cheese and seasoned beef fills your kitchen, making it a family favorite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with onions, then layer the ingredients in your baking dish while preheating the oven to 350°F. This sequence ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of paprika or chili powder can also elevate the flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through to maintain quality.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole
Use fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and color
Let it cool slightly before serving for better slicing and plating

Cooking this casserole brings back memories of my childhood when my mom made it on hectic school nights. The cheesy goodness always made us kids happy, and now I enjoy making it for my family.

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for this casserole?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes lighter alternatives that work well in this recipe.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats easily, perfect for busy weeknights ahead.