Bring a comforting and delicious classic to your dinner table with this Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness for the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect choice for a quick and satisfying family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a nostalgic comfort food meal. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this casserole will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole :
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and bake time.
- Family-Friendly: Combines flavors and textures kids and adults love.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with additional vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative seasonings.
- Comforting: A warm, nostalgic meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.
Ingredients For Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole :
For the Base:
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty protein base.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and flavor to the beef mixture.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balance.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 (10.25 oz) cans cream of chicken soup: The creamy foundation that ties the casserole together.
- 1 cup Colby cheese: Melts perfectly, adding richness and flavor.
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces egg noodles: Provides the casserole’s hearty and satisfying texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions :
1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Coat a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper while cooking. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.
4. Add Onions:
Add the chopped onions to the skillet with the beef and stir until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Mix in Cream of Chicken Soup:
Stir the cans of cream of chicken soup into the beef mixture. Mix thoroughly to coat the beef and onions evenly.
6. Combine with Noodles:
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and gently fold them into the beef and soup mixture until fully combined.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the noodle and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded Colby cheese evenly over the top. Cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake:
Bake the casserole, covered, for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, stir gently, and then return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for a Perfect Hamburger and Noodle Casserole :
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Cheese Variations: Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.
- Double the Recipe: This casserole freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Variations :
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Vegetable-Loaded: Mix in cooked spinach, zucchini, or broccoli for a veggie-packed version.
- Creamy Mushroom: Substitute one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a deeper flavor.
- Pasta Alternatives: Use rotini or penne pasta if egg noodles aren’t available.
Serving Suggestions :
This Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: Add some broccoli, green beans, or carrots for extra nutrition.
Storage and Leftovers :
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Freezer:
To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
FAQs Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole :
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge. - Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner option. Ground pork works well, too. - Can I add more cheese?
Of course! Feel free to add an extra layer of cheese on top or mix it into the beef and noodle mixture for extra creaminess. - Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup alternative for a gluten-free version. - Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can layer the cooked beef mixture, noodles, and cheese in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or until heated through and bubbly.
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Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole
Classic Hamburger and Noodle Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dinner! Made with ground beef, egg noodles, and creamy sauce, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- - 1 lb ground beef
- - 1 small onion, chopped
- - 1 tsp salt
- - ½ tsp pepper
- - 2 (10.25 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- - 1 cup Colby cheese, shredded
- - 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper. Drain grease.
3. Add onions to beef and sauté until tender.
4. Stir in cream of chicken soup, then mix in cooked noodles.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 2 ½-quart casserole dish. Top with cheese and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Stir, then bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best results.
- Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for a nutritional boost.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.