Old-Fashioned Hamburger Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this casserole for its rich flavor, comforting texture, and easy preparation. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser for all ages. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is ideal for weeknights or potlucks. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy cheese makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef
• Elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes (optional)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
• Olive oil (for cooking)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft.
4. Add ground beef and garlic to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes to blend flavors.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the meat mixture and stir until well combined.
7. Transfer half of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar (and mozzarella if using) over the mixture.
9. Add the remaining pasta and beef mixture on top and finish with the rest of the cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Rest time: 5 minutes
Total time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

• Creamy Version: Mix in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced green chilies to the meat sauce.
• Add Veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Different Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a flavor change.
• Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend instead of cheddar.

Storage/Reheating

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

To reheat:

• Oven: Cover and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Freezer: Freeze cooled casserole (whole or in portions) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes this casserole “old-fashioned”?

It’s a simple, nostalgic recipe using basic ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce, often passed down through generations.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, rotini, penne, or shells all work well in this dish.

Do I have to use both cheddar and mozzarella?

No, you can use just one or any cheese you prefer.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of ground beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85–90%) works best to reduce excess grease.

Can I add a breadcrumb topping?

Yes, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top before baking for extra texture.

How do I prevent it from drying out?

Don’t overbake it, and be sure your sauce is slightly saucy before combining it with the pasta.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your tomato sauce is gluten-free.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Garlic bread, green salad, or steamed vegetables make perfect pairings.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Hamburger Casserole is a timeless dinner favorite that’s easy to make, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this cozy casserole is always a hit. Simple ingredients, classic taste, and comforting layers make it a must-have in your recipe rotation.

Old-Fashioned Hamburger Casserole

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Old-Fashioned Hamburger Casserole is a classic comfort dish made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and layers of gooey cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add ground beef and garlic. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the meat sauce and stir to combine evenly.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half the pasta-beef mixture into the dish.
8. Sprinkle half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the layer.
9. Add remaining pasta mixture, then top with remaining cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Make it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• For extra creaminess, mix in 1/4 cup sour cream or cream cheese.
• Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a nutrition boost.
• Use rotini, penne, or shells if you don’t have elbow macaroni.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg