Adaline Recipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together the comforting flavors of seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese in one easy-to-make dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels warm, hearty, and nostalgic.

Another reason to love this recipe is its convenience. With basic pantry ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can prepare a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

It’s also very adaptable. You can add vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or switch up the pasta shape depending on what you have available.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
elbow macaroni
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes
tomato paste
olive oil
italian seasoning
paprika
salt
black pepper
shredded cheddar cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
7. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
8. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
9. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.
10. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
11. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
12. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetable version
Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spicy version
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Creamy version
Mix in a small amount of sour cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.

Different pasta shapes
Use penne, rotini, or shells instead of elbow macaroni.

Extra cheesy version
Add a layer of cheese in the middle of the casserole for an extra gooey texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.

Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval for even heating.

This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months in airtight containers.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for hamburger casserole?

Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but other short pasta shapes work well too.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar and mozzarella create a great combination of flavor and melt.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can easily be added.

Why cook the pasta before baking?

Cooking the pasta first ensures it becomes tender and prevents it from absorbing too much liquid during baking.

Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes, but the cheese adds richness and helps create a golden, bubbly topping.

Can I freeze hamburger casserole?

Yes, it freezes well and can be stored for up to 2 months.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair well with this dish.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure the sauce is well mixed with the pasta and cover the dish when reheating.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Hamburger Casserole is a timeless comfort dish that combines simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying meal. With its savory beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese topping, it’s a recipe that continues to bring families together around the dinner table. Easy to prepare and full of classic flavor, it’s a dependable meal you can return to again and again.

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