Pin A comforting, budget, friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
I first made this hamburger casserole when my kids requested something extra cozy after soccer practice, and it quickly became a staple for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil), 1/2 tsp paprika, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13/inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Boil pasta:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown meat:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef; sauté 3, 4 minutes until softened.
- Simmer sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine with pasta:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Assemble casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin Everyone in my family goes for seconds of this casserole, and it's a tradition to serve it with a fresh green salad alongside.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, colander, mixing spoon
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta) and milk (cheese). May contain soy, depending on tomato products and cheese labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 430 calories, 18 g total fat, 42 g carbohydrates, 26 g protein
Pin This dish is even better as leftovers, and reheats wonderfully for lunch next day.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives while keeping similar flavors.
- → What pasta type works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is preferred for its ability to hold sauce well and provide a tender bite.
- → Can I add vegetables to enhance the casserole?
Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn can be added before baking to boost texture and flavor.
- → How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes in a 375°F oven.
- → Are there any recommended seasonings aside from Italian herbs?
Adding paprika, salt, and pepper balances the flavors and complements the tomato base well.