If you’re looking for an easy and delicious weekday meal that the kids will love, this Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a winner! With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a hearty and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, with this recipe, you have complete control over the ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options like Hamburger Helper. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds of lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon of canola oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
• 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 can (28 ounces) of pureed tomatoes or your favorite sauce
• 16-ounce box of macaroni noodles
• 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Start by sweating the onions in the canola oil with a pinch of salt. Once the onions are slightly softened, add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up as you go. Season the beef with another pinch of salt and pepper, along with the oregano, garlic, and paprika.
2. Once the beef is cooked, add the pureed tomatoes or your preferred sauce to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about an hour. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a deliciously rich sauce.
3. While the sauce is simmering, cook the macaroni noodles in a pot of boiling water until they are only halfway done. Drain the noodles and add them to the tomato sauce. If you prefer a more tomatoey and beefy casserole, you can use only half the box of macaroni. Stir the noodles into the sauce until they are well coated.
4. At this point, you have a couple of options. You can either cover the casserole and transfer it to a large baking dish to bake later, refrigerate it for up to two days, or freeze it for a few weeks. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy days when you don’t have much time to cook.
5. When you’re ready to enjoy your Cheesy Hamburger Casserole, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. If the casserole is cold or at room temperature, bake it covered in the oven for about 45 minutes or until it’s piping hot. Just before serving, remove the foil, sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top of the macaroni, and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve the casserole hot and enjoy!

This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The combination of tender ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both convenient and delicious!