Save to Pinterest A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Growing up, hamburger casserole was a staple at our dinner table. My kids now request it every week, and it never fails to bring everyone together for a cozy meal.
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
- Prep and Equipment:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Meat:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef. Sauté 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine and Assemble:
- Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well to coat with sauce.
- Bake:
- Transfer mixture to baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest This casserole always reminds me of Sunday nights at grandma's house, when the whole family would gather and everyone went for seconds.
Notes
For extra veggies, stir in frozen peas or corn before baking, and top with fresh parsley for a vibrant garnish.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, 9x13-inch baking dish, colander, mixing spoon.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta) and milk (cheese). May contain soy. Always check labels for possible allergens.
Save to Pinterest Serve hot for a satisfying meal that brings comfort and smiles to any dinner table. This is sure to become a family favorite!
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives and maintain the dish's flavor and texture.
- → Is it necessary to use both cheddar and mozzarella cheese?
Cheddar provides sharpness and richness, while mozzarella adds meltiness and stretch. Using both creates a balanced cheesy topping but cheddar alone will still work.
- → Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if chilled.
- → What herbs enhance the tomato sauce best?
Dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil complement the tomato sauce beautifully, adding aromatic depth.
- → Are there any suggested vegetable additions?
Diced bell pepper is optional, and adding frozen peas or corn before baking adds sweetness and texture.