In the realm of comfort food, the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole stands out as a quintessential dish that combines simple, hearty ingredients into a meal that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. This casserole features layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy, melted cheese, all baked to perfection. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to the table with its familiar, comforting aroma and promises a fulfilling eating experience.
A Dish Full of Flavor and Simplicity
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends. The blend of tomatoes, herbs, and cheeses with the pasta and ground beef creates a rich and comforting dish that’s sure to please. Let’s explore how to bring this all together.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Serving: 6-8 people
- Equipment: Oven, skillet, large mixing bowl, 9×13 inch baking dish
Recipe Title: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are tender.
- Simmer the Sauce: Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine and Layer: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef and tomato sauce mixture and sour cream. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Transfer half of this mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over this layer. Add the remaining macaroni mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated and the cheese on top is melted and starts to turn golden.
Gather and Enjoy
This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is designed to deliver a punch of flavor and a comforting texture with every bite. It’s a dish that goes beyond mere sustenance, providing a taste of home with every cheesy, savory forkful. Serve it hot for a meal that not only satisfies the appetite but also comforts the soul, perfect for any day that calls for a little extra warmth and cheer.
