Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole is pure comfort food in a baking dish. Tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato-cheese sauce all bake together under a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal that feels nostalgic and homemade in the best way.

This recipe uses simple pantry staples—pasta, ground beef, tomato sauce, and plenty of cheese—to create a weeknight-friendly casserole that’s easy to assemble and always a hit. Serve it with a simple salad or garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete dinner that feeds a crowd or leaves you with delicious leftovers.

Perfect for busy nights, family gatherings, or when you’re craving something warm and cheesy from the oven, this Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole is the kind of dish that has everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty & Satisfying – Pasta + beef + cheese = a filling, complete meal.
Extra Cheesy – A creamy sauce and a melty cheese topping.
Family-Friendly – Simple flavors that kids and adults both love.
Great for Leftovers – Reheats well for next-day lunches or dinners.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

8 oz (about 2 cups) elbow macaroni or small pasta
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14–15 oz / 400 g) tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
½ cup beef broth (or water)
2 tbsp tomato paste (for richer flavor, optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Sauce & Topping:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra gooeyness)
¼ tsp mustard powder (optional, for depth)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions).
Drain and set aside.

Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion.
Cook, breaking up the meat, until beef is browned and onion is softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Add tomato sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste (if using) to the skillet.
Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
Simmer on low for 5–10 minutes to let the flavors meld and sauce thicken slightly.

Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Turn off the heat and stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (and mustard powder if using) until melted and smooth.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta, Beef, and Cheese Sauce
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl (or the pasta pot), combine cooked macaroni, the beef-tomato mixture, and the cheese sauce.
Stir until everything is well coated and evenly mixed.

Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (or similar) baking dish.
Spread the macaroni and hamburger mixture evenly in the dish.
Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar and ½ cup mozzarella (if using).

Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.

Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes to set slightly.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Scoop into portions and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per serving, 1 of 6)

Calories: ~520
Protein: 29g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

Slightly Undercook the Pasta – It will continue cooking in the oven, so keep it just al dente.
Season in Layers – Taste the beef mixture and cheese sauce separately and adjust salt and pepper before combining.
Don’t Skimp on Cheese – The cheese sauce + topping are what make this casserole extra cozy.
Rest Before Serving – Letting it sit a few minutes helps it firm up and makes it easier to scoop.

Why This Recipe Works

Combining a flavorful tomato-beef mixture with a creamy cheese sauce gives you the best of both worlds—like hamburger helper meets baked mac and cheese. The macaroni absorbs some of the sauce as it bakes, while the cheesy top turns golden and bubbly, adding texture and extra flavor.

Everything cooks together in one baking dish, making this Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole ideal for busy evenings, picky eaters, and anyone craving a nostalgic, homey dinner. It’s simple, comforting, and guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation.