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This cheesy macaroni hamburger casserole brings together tender noodles and rich creamy cheese sauce with browned ground beef and onions for a hearty, comforting meal. The melted Velveeta, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, Parmesan, and milk blend into a velvety sauce that coats every bite of macaroni and beef. The American cheese slices create a gooey layer before a crunchy topping of crushed cracker crumbs bakes to golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug straight from the oven, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
I first made this on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how everyone fought over the leftovers the next day. It quickly became a family favorite.
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 medium high 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 until smooth and evenly mixed. Add the cheesy macaroni and fold gently to combine all components thoroughly.
- Assembling the Casserole:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch 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 casserole is a cozy, crowd pleasing meal that works for weeknights and potlucks. Leftovers reheat well so you can enjoy it again the next day.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I ensure the macaroni is cooked perfectly?
Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente—tender but firm to the bite—then drain well to prevent sogginess.
- → What is the best way to brown the ground beef evenly?
Cook ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and juices evaporate. Adding chopped onions halfway enhances flavor and texture.
- → Can I substitute the Velveeta cheese with another type?
Processed cheese like Velveeta melts smoothly, but sharp cheddar or blended cheeses can work if melted carefully to keep creaminess.
- → What adds the crunchy topping on this dish?
Crushed Ritz cracker crumbs sprinkled over cheese slices create a golden, crispy crust after baking.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and substitute cracker crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain texture and flavor without gluten.
- → Is there a lighter protein option to replace ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for ground beef to lighten the dish while keeping enjoyable texture and taste.