Homemade Hamburger Casserole: A Classic Comfort Meal
This casserole combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauces, and a blend of spices, making it a perfect comfort meal for chilly evenings or busy weeknights.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef Lean ground beef for less grease.
- 1 medium Onion Diced.
- 2-3 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 2 cups Pasta Uncooked elbow macaroni or pasta of choice.
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese Shredded.
- 1 can Tomato Sauce Approximately 15 ounces.
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1-2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning For flavor enhancement.
- 1 cup Mixed Vegetables Optional, such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers.
Seasonings
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, then stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, reducing the cooking time by 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. If using, fold in the mixed vegetables.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be customized with different vegetables, spices, or cheese options to suit your family's preferences.