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This recipe is one of those soul-satisfying dishes that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that bring the whole family to the table.
We’re talking tender macaroni noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy, rich cheese sauce topped with melty American cheese and buttery Ritz cracker crumbs. The result? A bubbling, golden casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners.
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Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Comfort food at its best — warm, creamy, and full of flavor.
- Family-friendly — even picky eaters will love it.
- Make-ahead & freezer-friendly — perfect for meal prep.
- Customizable — add veggies, swap meats, or play with cheeses.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups macaroni noodles (uncooked)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 can cheddar cheese soup
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 8 oz sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup milk
- 8 slices American cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz cracker crumbs
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for pasta
- Skillet for beef
- Mixing spoon/spatula
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven & Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. - Cook the Macaroni
In salted boiling water, cook macaroni until al dente. Drain well. - Make the Cheese Base
Return noodles to the pot. Stir in Velveeta cheese until melted and fully coating the pasta. - Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Season with salt and pepper. - Add Creaminess
Stir in sour cream, cheddar cheese soup, onion powder, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Mix until smooth. - Combine Everything
Add macaroni to the beef mixture and stir until evenly combined. - Assemble
Spread into the prepared baking dish. Layer American cheese slices on top, then sprinkle with crushed Ritz cracker crumbs. - Bake & Serve
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden top. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with:
- A simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use freshly grated cheese when possible for better melting.
- Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Mix in peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes — assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely — penne, rotini, or shells work great.
Q: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
A: Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or gluten-free crumbs work well.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole is the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to — comforting, crowd-pleasing, and wonderfully simple. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or bringing to a potluck, and it reheats like a dream.
If you loved this, try:
- Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake
- Beef & Potato Casserole
- Creamy Chicken and Rice Bake
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Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 410
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 21g
