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A delicious baked Hamburger Casserole is shown as the featured image for this recipe.

Easy Hamburger Casserole

This easy hamburger casserole recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal. Combining ground beef, pasta, and a rich sauce, it's topped with melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying family dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese optional
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • large pot
  • colander
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, cream of mushroom soup, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked macaroni and optional sour cream or cream cheese (if using).
  7. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and optional breadcrumbs (if using).
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  10. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a blend of ground beef and ground sausage. You can also add vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the casserole. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.