Hamburger Cheese Bake
A hearty and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy cheese mixture. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it combines rich flavors of tomato, cheese, and fresh vegetables for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 tsp. sugar ⓘ
- 3/4 tsp. salt or garlic salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 4 c. uncooked medium noodles ⓘ
- 1 c. cream style cottage cheese ⓘ
- 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened ⓘ
- 1/4 c. dairy sour cream ⓘ
- 1/3 c. sliced green onion ⓘ
- 1/4 c. green pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 c. Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion until meat is lightly browned and onion is tender.
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt or garlic salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.
- Meanwhile, cook medium noodles according to package directions, then drain.
- Combine cream-style cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, sliced green onion, and chopped green pepper in a bowl.
- Layer cooked noodles in a baking dish, then top with the meat sauce.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist. Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrition. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Hamburger Cheese Bake with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, serve it alongside some homemade garlic knots or even a fresh coleslaw to balance the rich flavors of the bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Cheese Bake contains roughly 450 calories, with 31g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), protein (62% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2087mg per serving (91% 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 cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for the Parmesan or Mozzarella. Experimenting with different cheeses can give your Hamburger Cheese Bake a unique flavor profile, making it even more enjoyable.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Hamburger Cheese Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and adjust the baking time as needed since it will be starting from a colder temperature.
What can I serve with Hamburger Cheese Bake?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides. A crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables add freshness. You could also serve cornbread or a side of baked beans for a heartier meal, making it a great choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
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).