Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat sauce.
Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s well-mixed and melted into the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the pasta and meat mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese (if using) over the top.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Season as You Go: Taste the meat mixture before adding pasta, and adjust the seasoning as needed for best flavor.
Al Dente Pasta: Since the pasta will cook a bit more in the oven, make sure it’s al dente when you boil it.
Add Extra Veggies: This casserole is a great way to sneak in veggies – try adding diced zucchini, carrots, or even spinach.
Variations for Cheesy Hamburger Casserole
Mexican-Inspired: Add a can of diced green chiles, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and garnish with sliced jalapeños.
Extra Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, and cheddar for a gooier casserole.
Healthier Version: Swap the pasta for whole wheat or use a lower-fat cheese. You could also add more vegetables, like spinach or cauliflower, for extra nutrition.
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: For a twist, add crumbled, cooked bacon to the ground beef mixture and use a mix of cheddar and Swiss cheese.
