Save It A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
I remember making this hamburger casserole for my kids on busy school nights when time was limited. It quickly became a favorite because everyone could help themselves and leftovers were always welcome the next day.
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Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- Vegetables: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Vegetables: 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce
- Sauce: 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- Sauce: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil)
- Sauce: 1/2 tsp paprika
- Sauce: Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Dairy: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
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Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni:
- 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.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine Macaroni and Sauce:
- 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 and Serve:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save It Sharing this casserole around the dinner table always sparks laughter and stories from our kids about their day. Leftover slices rarely last past the next morning!
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with a green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. Add fresh parsley or green onions on top for brightness.
Recipe Variations
Try adding frozen peas, corn, or swapping in your preferred cheese. For extra vegetables, diced zucchini works well too.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled casserole in an airtight container up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Save It 
This comforting hamburger casserole brings family together and tastes just as delicious for leftovers. Enjoy every hearty bite!
