Easy Hamburger Macaroni Casserole
A hearty, cheesy hamburger macaroni casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melted Cheddar, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef with salt, pepper, diced onion, and green pepper in a skillet.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse macaroni in cool water.
- Place macaroni in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Drain cooked hamburger and mix with Ragu sauce.
- Add the meat mixture to the macaroni and stir well.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the ground beef while browning. You can substitute the Ragu sauce with your favorite marinara or homemade sauce for a personal touch. If you want a creamier texture, mix in a can of cream of mushroom soup or sour cream before baking. For a bit of crunch, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Hamburger Macaroni Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve it alongside garlic bread or breadsticks for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Hamburger Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 887 calories, with 43g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (86% of the Daily Value), calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1643mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is cooked through.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the meat mixture. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber. This dish is versatile, so feel free to mix in any vegetables you have on hand!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).