Looking for a tasty homemade meal that is just as easy to make as Hamburger Helper? This Cheesy Hamburger Casserole recipe is exactly what you need. Not only can you control the ingredients, but it’s also a hit with the kids! Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Sauce

1. In a large pan, sweat the diced onions in the canola oil with a pinch of salt.
2. Add the lean ground beef to the pan and cook it, breaking it up as you go. Season with another pinch of salt and pepper, oregano, chopped garlic, and paprika.
3. Pour in the pureed tomatoes or your favorite sauce and bring it to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to cook for an hour, letting all the flavors come together.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

1. While the meat and sauce are simmering, cook the macaroni noodles in boiling water until they are half done.
2. Drain the noodles and add them to the pan with the sauce. If you prefer a more tomatoey and beefy casserole, you can use only half the box of macaroni. Otherwise, use the whole box for a heartier dish.
3. Stir the noodles into the sauce, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 3: Bake and Serve

1. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Transfer the casserole to a large baking dish and cover it with foil. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, you can refrigerate it for up to two days or freeze it for a few weeks.
3. When you’re ready to eat, preheat your oven to 400 degrees and bake the casserole until it’s piping hot. This usually takes around 45 minutes if the dish is cold or at room temperature.
4. Just before serving, remove the foil and sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
5. Turn on the broiler and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Plate up the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole and enjoy this comforting and cheesy meal!

Don’t be surprised if this dish becomes a family favorite. With its delicious flavors and easy preparation, it’s a weekday meal that will keep everyone satisfied.