Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole Recipe

A Comfort Food Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty casserole straight from the oven, and Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is one for the books. This recipe is a nostalgic nod to home-cooked meals that bring the family together. Featuring layers of tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal, an easy weeknight dinner, or something to bring to a potluck, this recipe delivers. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Family-Friendly – A dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
  2. Budget-Conscious – Uses affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients.
  3. Easy to Make – No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
  4. Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
  5. Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 (8-ounce) package egg noodles
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 large white onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or more to taste)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • 9×13-inch casserole dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and crumbly (about 5 to 7 minutes). Drain excess grease.

2. Prepare the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, garlic salt, and salt. Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat and cover.

3. Cook the Egg Noodles

While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions (typically 7 to 9 minutes), then drain.

4. Prepare the Creamy Layer

In a bowl, mix the sour cream, softened cream cheese, and diced onion until well combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole

  • Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  • Layer half of the egg noodles in the dish.
  • Spread half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles.
  • Add half of the beef and sauce mixture.
  • Repeat the layers.
  • Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the top.

6. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Meat Variations – Try ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
  • Extra Veggies – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
  • Cheese Choices – Swap Cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free noodles instead of egg noodles.
  • Low-Carb Swap – Replace the noodles with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What to Serve with Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

This casserole is hearty on its own, but here are some great pairings:

  • Side Dishes: Garlic bread, cornbread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
  • Drinks: A glass of red wine, iced tea, or a cold beer.
  • Desserts: Finish with a classic apple pie or chocolate chip cookies for the ultimate comfort meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the sour cream and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free cheese.

How do I prevent my casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover it with foil during the first half of baking if you’re worried about moisture loss. Also, don’t overbake it.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Try adding Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture or topping the casserole with crispy fried onions before serving.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is a true classic, delivering comforting flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, this dish won’t disappoint.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family and subscribe to the blog for more delicious homemade recipes. Happy cooking!

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