Warm, comforting, and loaded with savory flavor, Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a go-to dinner recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy tomato-mushroom sauce, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Everything bakes together in one dish until the cheese is golden and bubbly, making cleanup simple and the meal satisfying. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s easy to customize, perfect for potlucks, and just right for when you want something hearty and delicious straight from the oven.
Why This Recipe Works
- Quick and easy: Simple ingredients and one baking dish.
- Kid-approved: Pasta and cheese are always a hit.
- Budget-friendly: Feeds a crowd using pantry staples.
- Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
- Versatile: Swap the meat, pasta, or cheese to suit your tastes.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight staple or a make-ahead casserole to freeze and reheat later, this cheesy hamburger pasta bake checks every box.
Ingredients Overview
Main Components
- Ground beef (1 lb): Brings a rich, savory base. Look for lean beef for less grease.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- Cooked pasta (2 cups): Choose shapes like rotini, elbow macaroni, or penne for best sauce coverage.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 15 oz): Offers acidity and balance to the creamy base.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Provides the creamy, cohesive texture.
- Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy finish. Shred it fresh for best melt.
Seasonings
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a mellow savory layer.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme brings warmth.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7–8 minutes. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
Step 3: Drain and Add the Sauce Ingredients
Drain off any excess fat from the skillet. Return it to the heat and stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Fold in the cooked pasta and gently mix everything together so the pasta is well coated with the beef and sauce mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Be generous—this is the cheesy finish everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly for cleaner slices and easier serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Assemble but don’t bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispy cheese top. Microwave for convenience, though the texture may soften slightly.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
- Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery if you prefer different flavors.
- Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or a blend all melt beautifully.
- Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrients and color.
- Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if needed, or switch to whole wheat for a healthier twist.
What to Serve With It
This casserole is rich and cheesy, so it pairs well with fresh, lighter sides:
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- A cup of tomato soup for ultimate comfort food vibes
History of Hamburger Casseroles
Cheesy hamburger casseroles became staples in American kitchens around the 1950s when economical, one-dish meals gained popularity. Canned soups and boxed pasta helped home cooks stretch meals to feed families with limited budgets. Over time, these casseroles became nostalgic comfort foods—quick to prepare, filling, and endlessly adaptable.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
If you’re prepping this for a future meal:
- Assemble the entire dish without baking.
- Cover tightly with foil and freeze.
- When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Bake uncovered as directed (you may need to add 5–10 minutes).
Using pre-shredded cheese or frozen chopped onions can help speed up prep even more.
Pro Tips for Success
- Brown the beef deeply: Don’t rush this step—it builds rich flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook just until al dente so it holds up after baking.
- Use fresh cheese: Pre-shredded bags contain anti-caking agents that affect melt.
- Rest before serving: This allows everything to firm up slightly and makes slicing easier.
Recipe FAQs
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
→ What kind of pasta is best?
Short shapes like rotini, penne, elbow macaroni, or shells work well. They hold the sauce better and reheat nicely.
→ Is this freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
→ Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes—mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even a Mexican blend can work if you want a different flavor profile.
→ How do I reheat leftovers?
Use the oven for a crispy top or the microwave for speed. Add a splash of milk before reheating if the pasta looks dry.
