Classic Hamburger Casserole
Classic Hamburger Casserole
Introduction
There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole to bring everyone to the table, and our Classic Hamburger Casserole is truly a timeless family favorite. This dish effortlessly combines seasoned ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich, savory tomato sauce, all crowned with a bubbly layer of melted cheese. It's the kind of comforting meal that sparks happy memories and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for a cozy night in or a busy weeknight, this easy-to-make casserole delivers on flavor and pure, wholesome comfort. Get ready to fall in love with a dish everyone will adore!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 4 cups cooked egg noodles (about 8 ounces dry)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it gently cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Stir the cooked and drained egg noodles into the beef and sauce mixture.
- Pour half of the beef and noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Top with the remaining beef and noodle mixture.
- Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the ½ cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole completely, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or frozen peas (stir in with the noodles) for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish (do not bake). Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, possibly adding extra baking time. Baked leftovers also freeze well in individual portions.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve this comforting casserole with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 480-550
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Sodium: 800-950mg
- Fiber: 3-4g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can substitute other medium pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. Just be sure to cook it al dente before mixing.
- Q: How long does this casserole last in the refrigerator? A: Leftover Classic Hamburger Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.
- Q: What kind of ground beef is best to use? A: We recommend lean ground beef, such as 80/20 or 90/10. 80/20 will offer more flavor, while 90/10 will be lighter. Regardless, always drain any excess fat after browning for the best results.
- Q: Can I make this casserole spicier? A: Yes! For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce along with the other seasonings, or include a diced jalapeño with the onion.