Save A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
This hamburger casserole became a staple in our home after I discovered how simple and filling it is on busy nights. My kids always ask for seconds, and it's one meal that never goes to waste.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil), 1/2 tsp paprika, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save This casserole is always requested at our family get-togethers. The bubbling cheese and tomato aroma brings everyone to the table faster than anything else I make.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a simple green salad for a complete meal. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Recipe Variations
Try stirring in frozen peas or corn before baking for added flavor and texture. Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you like a little kick.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, colander, mixing spoon.
Save This hamburger casserole brings comfort to the table every time. Serve it warm and enjoy with loved ones for a crowd-pleasing dinner.
Kitchen Questions
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the sauce well and bakes evenly, but small pasta shapes like shells or rotini can be used.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that still keep the casserole flavorful.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Diced bell pepper is included optionally, and frozen peas or corn can be stirred in before baking for extra color and nutrition.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil complement the tomato base well, adding aromatic notes without overpowering the dish.
- → Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance, refrigerate overnight, then sprinkle cheese and bake just before serving for convenience.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden—approximately 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).