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Hamburger Casserole (Easy, Cheesy & Family-Friendly)
Featured in: Easy Dinner Recipes • Family-Friendly Recipes • Ground Beef Recipes
Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate cozy, cheesy weeknight dinner: juicy ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce all baked under a blanket of golden, bubbly cheese. It tastes like a mash-up of lasagna and a cheeseburger in casserole form, with just one pan to wash and zero fancy steps.
As a busy home cook, you need dinners that look like you fussed but actually come together fast. This easy hamburger casserole recipe is exactly that: browned ground beef, pantry-friendly pasta, canned tomatoes, and a quick creamy tomato sauce layered with cheese and baked until hot and comforting. It’s kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
From start to finish, this cheesy Hamburger Casserole is ready in about 45 minutes, and most of that time it’s baking while you clean up or relax. If you love low-effort, big-reward dinners, this one belongs in your regular rotation. Let’s make it!
Recipe by Amanda — founder of 3recipes
20+ years of helping busy home cooks make easy, impressive dinners.
Published February 10, 2025
Why You’ll Be Obsessed With This Hamburger Casserole
- One-pan comfort food: Everything bakes in one casserole dish for minimal cleanup.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple pantry ingredients and affordable ground beef.
- Family-approved: Think cheesy pasta bake meets cheeseburger — kids devour it.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble Hamburger Casserole earlier in the day and bake later.
- Freezer-friendly: Great for stocking your freezer with homemade comfort food.
- Easy to customize: Add veggies, change the cheese, or make it spicy with just a few tweaks.
Hamburger Casserole Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy, cheesy Hamburger Casserole for about 6 people:
For the Beef & Sauce
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80–90% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Pasta & Creamy Layer
- 10 oz (about 3 cups) uncooked small pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini)
- 3/4 cup sour cream (room temperature if possible)
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Ground beef: Use leaner beef if you prefer; drain off extra fat after browning.
- Pasta: Any short pasta works. Cook just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the casserole.
- Dairy swap: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
- Veggie boost: Stir in 1–2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables or chopped bell peppers with the sauce.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and confirm your broth is gluten-free.
Want to level up your garlic skills for this Hamburger Casserole? See our handy guide on how to mince garlic.
“`How to Make Hamburger Casserole (Step-by-Step)
This Hamburger Casserole comes together in a few easy phases: cook the pasta, brown the beef, build the sauce, then layer and bake.
Step 01
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, 1–2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain well and set aside.
You want the pasta slightly undercooked so it finishes perfectly tender in the Hamburger Casserole as it bakes.
Step 02
Brown the Hamburger and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant. Drain excess grease if necessary.
This step builds the deep, savory hamburger flavor that makes this casserole so satisfying.
Step 03
Make the Tomato Beef Sauce
To the skillet with the beef, add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste (if using), Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir well, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
You want a rich, scoopable sauce that will cling to the pasta in your Hamburger Casserole.
Step 04
Stir Together the Creamy Pasta Layer
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
Add the drained warm pasta to the bowl and toss until the pasta is coated in the creamy mixture.
This creamy layer keeps your Hamburger Casserole moist and adds a subtle tang that balances the rich beef and cheese.
Step 05
Layer the Hamburger Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the creamy pasta mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Spoon the beef and tomato sauce over the top and gently spread it into an even layer.
Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the casserole.
No need to be perfect here — Hamburger Casserole is wonderfully forgiving and rustic.
Step 06
Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges are lightly golden.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the layers can set slightly.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.
Read This Before You Bake
- Don’t overcook the pasta — slightly under al dente keeps your Hamburger Casserole from getting mushy.
- Drain excess grease from the beef so the casserole doesn’t become oily.
- Bring sour cream closer to room temperature so it blends smoothly with the pasta.
- If the top browns too fast, tent loosely with foil for the last 5–10 minutes.
- Letting the casserole rest gives you cleaner slices and better flavor.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store leftover Hamburger Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot.
- Freezer: Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered until heated through.
- Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge to the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Different protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based crumble for a lighter Hamburger Casserole.
- Extra veggies: Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and color.
- Cheese swap: Use Colby Jack, Pepper Jack (for a little heat), or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and sauces are certified gluten-free.
- Spicy Hamburger Casserole: Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Low-carb idea: Replace pasta with lightly steamed cauliflower florets for a cheesy hamburger bake with fewer carbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Hamburger Casserole is a full meal on its own, but a few simple sides make it extra special:
- Serve with a crisp green salad and tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Add garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the extra sauce.
- Round it out with roasted vegetables or steamed green beans for a complete plate.
Looking for more ideas? Try our Easy Dinner Recipes collection for more weeknight winners.
Hamburger Casserole Origins
Hamburger Casserole is a classic American comfort food born from the idea of stretching simple ground beef into a hearty family meal. As casseroles became popular in mid-20th-century home kitchens, home cooks combined hamburger, tomato sauce, pasta, and cheese as an affordable way to feed a crowd. Today, Hamburger Casserole shows up at potlucks, weeknight dinners, and church suppers across the country, with every family adding their own little twist.
👨🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Hamburger Casserole
- Taste the sauce before layering so you can adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- For a slightly crispy top, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end — watch it closely.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for the best melt and flavor.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting; this helps the layers hold together and keeps the cheese from sliding off.
- If your casserole seems dry after reheating, stir in a splash of broth or milk and cover while warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
“`Can I make Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the Hamburger Casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, ziti, or shells works well; just cook it slightly under al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.
Can I freeze Hamburger Casserole?
Yes. Bake it, cool completely, then wrap well in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered until hot and bubbly.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and avoid overbaking. Remember that the pasta continues to cook in the sauce while the Hamburger Casserole bakes.
Can I make this casserole lighter?
You can use lean ground beef or turkey, reduce the cheese slightly, and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to make a lighter Hamburger Casserole that still tastes indulgent.
“`Helpful Resources
Hamburger Casserole
This easy, cheesy Hamburger Casserole combines ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese for a cozy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy nights.
“`⏱ Prep: 15 mins
🔥 Cook: 30 mins
📌 Total: 45 mins
By: Amanda, 3recipes
Category: Easy Dinners, Casseroles
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Beef & Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper
Pasta & Creamy Layer
- 10 oz small pasta (elbows, shells, or rotini)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning.
- Creamy pasta layer: In a large bowl, whisk sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss with the drained pasta until coated.
- Layer casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan. Spread creamy pasta in the bottom, spoon beef mixture over top, and sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden. Rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
🔢 Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: ~480 • Carbs: ~42 g • Protein: ~27 g • Fat: ~22 g • Sugar: ~7 g
Values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Did you make this Hamburger Casserole? I’d love to see your cozy, cheesy creations!
Tag @3recipes and use #HamburgerCasserole so we can share your dinner wins!
Hamburger Casserole (Easy, Cheesy & Family-Friendly)
Description
Hamburger Casserole is a cheesy, family-friendly bake with ground beef, pasta, and sauce. Easy comfort food for busy nights. Try it today!
Ingredients
Beef & Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper
Pasta & Creamy Layer
- 10 oz small pasta (elbows, shells, or rotini)
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown beef: In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning.
- Creamy pasta layer: In a large bowl, whisk sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss with the drained pasta until coated.
- Layer casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan. Spread creamy pasta in the bottom, spoon beef mixture over top, and sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden. Rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
Notes
- Taste the sauce before layering so you can adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- For a slightly crispy top, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end — watch it closely.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for the best melt and flavor.
