Cheesy Macaroni Hamburger Dish

This cheesy macaroni hamburger casserole brings together tender pasta, savory browned ground beef, and a creamy blend of Velveeta, cheddar cheese soup, and sour cream. The addition of Parmesan and milk enriches the sauce, while American cheese slices and crushed cracker crumbs form a golden, crunchy topping. Baked until bubbly and browned, it is a comforting dish that hits all the right notes for a satisfying family dinner.

I remember first making this for a busy weeknight and being amazed at how everyone fought over the leftovers the next day. It quickly became a favorite in our home for busy evenings when I wanted something warm and filling without fuss.

Ingredients

• One pound ground beef: for a hearty protein base that browns beautifully
• One onion: chopped to add sweetness and depth when cooked down
• Two cups macaroni noodles: cooked al dente for the perfect bite and texture
• Eight ounces Velveeta cheese: melted for creamy, smooth richness
• One can cheddar cheese soup: to boost cheesy flavor and creaminess
• Eight ounces sour cream: to add tang and velvety texture
• One half cup grated Parmesan cheese: which gives a subtle nutty sharpness
• One quarter cup milk: to loosen the sauce and make it silky
• Eight slices American cheese: for the topping to melt into a golden layer
• Half teaspoon onion powder: to enhance the savory notes
• One teaspoon garlic powder: for aromatic flavor
• Salt and pepper: to taste balancing the seasoning
• One cup crushed Ritz cracker crumbs: for a buttery crunchy topping that pulls it all together
• Note: Choosing fresh onions and good quality cheeses makes a big difference in taste. Make sure the macaroni is drained well so it does not become mushy.

Instructions

Searing the Beef and Onion:

Cook the ground beef and chopped onions together over mediumhigh heat until the beef is browned and fully cooked through and the onions become translucent and tender. This develops the foundational flavor of the casserole. Season with salt and pepper.

Melting the Cheese into Macaroni:

Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente then drain well. Return warm pasta to the pot and stir in melted Velveeta cheese until every noodle is coated with the creamy cheese, creating a luscious base.

Mixing the Sauce:

In a bowl or the skillet with beef, combine sour cream, cheddar cheese soup, onion powder, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Stir everything together until smooth and evenly mixed. Add the cheesy macaroni and fold gently to combine all components thoroughly.

Assembling the Casserole:

Grease a 9 by 13inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish creating a level surface for even cooking.

Adding Toppings:

Layer the American cheese slices on top of the casserole then sprinkle the crushed Ritz crumbs evenly over everything. This topping melts and crisps in the oven for a delightful contrast.

Baking to Perfection:

Bake uncovered in a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese topping melts and the cracker crumbs turn golden brown. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set and cool slightly.

The Velveeta cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts so perfectly to create that creamy texture at the heart of this dish. It always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone asks for seconds before the crumbs have even been cleared away.

Storage Tips

Cool the casserole completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish freezes wonderfully if you want to portion for future meals. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for ground beef to lighten the recipe without sacrificing flavor. Use gluten-free macaroni and substitute gluten-free cracker crumbs for a gluten-free version. You can replace the American cheese slices with any good melting cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad and a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables complement the meal nicely. A glass of lightly chilled white wine or robust lemonade makes a refreshing companion.

This cheesy macaroni hamburger casserole is an easy crowd pleasing weeknight meal. Serve warm and enjoy.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I cook the macaroni for best texture?

Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente—firm but tender—then drain thoroughly to prevent sogginess in the final dish.

→ What’s the key to browning ground beef evenly?

Cook over medium-high heat, breaking the meat apart and adding chopped onions halfway to enhance flavor and ensure thorough browning.

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of Velveeta?

Yes, processed cheeses melt smoothly, but sharp cheddar or cheese blends can be used if melted carefully to maintain creaminess.

→ What gives the casserole its crunchy topping?

Crushed cracker crumbs spread over the cheese slices create a golden, crisp crust after baking.

→ How to make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep texture and flavor without gluten.

→ Are there lighter protein alternatives to ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option while maintaining good texture and flavor.