Looking for a comforting and delicious meal idea? Try our Cheesy Hamburger Casserole recipe! Made with lean ground beef, savory spices, pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. Get the recipe now and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal tonight!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 cloves chopped garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- One 28-ounce can pureed tomatoes, or your favorite sauce
- 16 ounce box macaroni noodles
- 1/2 cup each grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses
Instructions:
Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium heat.
- Add the lean ground beef and cook, stirring constantly, until browned and crumbled.
- Add the diced onion, chopped garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Pour in the pureed tomatoes or your favorite sauce to the skillet with the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Stir to combine, then cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the macaroni noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the cooked noodles and set aside.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni noodles with the simmered ground beef and sauce mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake the Casserole:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
FAQs:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I customize the cheese blend?
- Of course! Experiment with different types of cheese to create your own unique flavor profile.
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