Name: Cheesy Hamburger Casserole Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained; ½ cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this casserole because it hits all the right notes—rich, cheesy, savory, and filling. It’s got everything in one pan: tender pasta, flavorful beef, zesty tomato sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping. It’s easy to prep ahead and makes for fantastic leftovers.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
8 oz elbow macaroni, cooked and drained
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat. I sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 2–3 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant.

Then I add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned through, draining off any excess fat.

Next, I stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes to blend the flavors.

In a large bowl, I mix the cooked elbow macaroni with sour cream until evenly coated.

I layer half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish, then add half of the beef mixture, and sprinkle on half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

I repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef, and cheese.

I cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After removing the foil, I bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

I let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

Sometimes I use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef for a different flavor. I also like to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Swapping the cheddar for pepper jack gives it a spicy kick, which I really enjoy.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I microwave individual portions or warm them in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It also freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it in the morning and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake it in the evening.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. I’ve used penne, rotini, and shells—all work great in this recipe.

Is there a substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great alternative and adds a similar creaminess.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes, I often add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

I look for bubbly edges and fully melted, slightly golden cheese on top—it’s a sure sign it’s ready.

Conclusion

This cheesy hamburger casserole bake is one of those meals that I keep coming back to. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor—a perfect choice for any night of the week. With just a bit of prep and layering, I get a dish that makes everyone happy and full.