Pin A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
I first made this hamburger casserole when my week was busy and hungry kids wanted something hearty. It quickly became the dish everyone looked forward to on chilly evenings.
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
- Prepare the baking dish:
- 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.
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 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 the sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Combine with pasta:
- Add macaroni into skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Assemble and bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest:
- Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin This casserole reminds me of cozy evenings chatting around the table as everyone dives in for seconds. It's an easy dinner that brings the family together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your hamburger casserole with a simple green salad and fresh bread for a balanced meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. You can add peas or corn for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains approximately 430 calories, 18 g fat, 42 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein.
Pin This casserole is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the easy cleanup after a satisfying meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives while maintaining the savory flavor profile.
- → Is it necessary to cook the macaroni fully before baking?
Cook the macaroni until just al dente to ensure it finishes cooking properly in the casserole without becoming mushy.
- → Can additional vegetables be added to the casserole?
Vegetables like peas, corn, or diced bell peppers can be stirred in before baking to enhance texture and nutrition.
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Cheddar provides sharpness and melts well, while mozzarella adds creaminess and stretch; combining both offers balanced flavor and texture.
- → How can I adjust the seasoning for spiciness?
Adding a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper along with the paprika will give the sauce a mildly spicy kick.