Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe
Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 70 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the whole family to the table, then this Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Packed with tender ground beef, tender macaroni, vibrant veggies, and a rich tomato-cheese sauce, this casserole offers all the warmth and satisfaction you want on a busy weeknight. It’s straightforward to prepare yet bursting with layers of flavor that everyone will love, making it a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a big, cozy hug from your favorite childhood meal—just elevated and homemade.

A clean, bright wooden surface arranged with the main ingredients for a Family Hamburger Helper Casserole: a small bowl of golden olive oil glistening under soft light; two minced garlic cloves on a light ceramic dish; a small pile of finely diced white onion; vibrant diced orange carrot cubes; crisp diced celery stalk pieces; a mound of raw ground beef with a rich red color and marbled fat; an uncooked pile of elbow macaroni noodles with smooth, pale yellow tubes; a small bowl of bright yellow corn kernels; a clear glass measuring cup filled with golden chicken broth; a small dish of deep red hot sauce; scattered ground chili powder in a rusty red tone; dried oregano flakes in muted green; a small bowl of light beige garlic powder; a rustic bowl overflowing with bright red crushed tomatoes; a spoonful of thick, deep red tomato paste; pinches of coarse salt and black peppercorns in contrasting textures; a small heap of smoky reddish paprika powder; two piles of shredded cheese with warm orange cheddar and creamy white mozzarella; a few thinly sliced vibrant green onion rounds neatly arranged to add a fresh pop of color. The ingredients are spaced evenly with natural shadows casting subtle depth, emphasizing varied textures and vibrant colors on a clean, neutral wood background. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe lies in its simple but perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building depth of flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheesy finish. From fresh vegetables to robust spices and melty cheeses, these components come together effortlessly to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil: A healthy fat to start the sauté and bring richness to the base flavors.
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a fragrant, flavorful punch that wakes up the whole dish.
  • 1 onion (diced): Provides sweetness and texture that soften and deepen as it cooks.
  • 1 carrot (diced): Offers a subtle sweetness and a little crunch, balancing savory elements.
  • 1 celery stalk (diced): Adds an aromatic lift with a bit of fresh crispness to the mix.
  • 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this casserole satisfying and filling.
  • 12 oz macaroni: Classic pasta shape perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
  • 1/2 cup corn: Sweet kernels that add delightful bursts of color and natural sugar.
  • 2 cups chicken broth: Enhances moisture and depth without overpowering the flavors.
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot): Brings a subtle kick that blends perfectly with the tomato base.
  • 1.5 tsp chili powder: Provides mild smoky heat and complexity.
  • 1 tsp oregano: Earthy and slightly bitter, it grounds the tomato elements beautifully.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Reinforces garlic flavor with a smooth consistency throughout the dish.
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, rich and vibrant, giving this casserole its signature tang.
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce to perfection.
  • 1.5 tsp salt: Essential to heighten all the flavors and bring balance.
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper: Adds a warm spice that complements the beef and tomatoes.
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness that lifts the entire profile.
  • 2.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Sharp and melty, it melts into the pasta for luscious cheesiness.
  • 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded): Gooey and smooth, adding stretch and creaminess on top.
  • 1 green onion (sliced): A fresh, peppery garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.

How to Make Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until everything softens and the aromas fill your kitchen. This step builds a flavorful foundation by coaxing out the sweetness and earthiness in the vegetables, which perfectly complements the rich beef and tomato sauce later on.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet with your sautéed vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns evenly. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, and all those meaty juices mingle with the veggies. This step brings the heartiness and protein that makes the Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe so satisfying.

Step 3: Combine Spices, Liquids, and Pasta

Sprinkle in the chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir everything well to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with spice. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, hot sauce, and add the macaroni along with the corn. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. At this point, the dish begins to transform into a rich, flavorful ensemble where each component plays a delightful role.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently until the macaroni is tender, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering stage allows the pasta to absorb all those robust flavors while tenderizing perfectly, creating a luscious, unified casserole filling.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheeses and Finish

Once the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheeses melt into creamy strands that envelop every bite with dreamy cheesiness. The melty cheeses create that irresistible gooey texture that truly defines the Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe.

How to Serve Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions on top just before serving to add a fresh, peppery bite and a splash of color that makes the dish even more inviting. A light dusting of extra smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce on the table also lets each person customize their plate to their taste.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a simple crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balances out the richness beautifully. A side of warm crusty bread or garlic bread also makes for a delicious way to scoop up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe in colorful individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at the table. For a fun twist, layer the casserole with extra cheese and bake briefly under the broiler for a bubbly golden crust that adds texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen as it rests, making it just as tasty the next day if not more.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, and store for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date for easy reference later.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until bubbling hot. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed, stirring to restore that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in this Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! While macaroni is the classic choice here, you can swap in other small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed since different shapes may vary in size and tenderness.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. You might want to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it completely vegetarian.

How spicy is this recipe with the hot sauce and chili powder?

The heat level in this recipe is mild to moderate, thanks to the small amount of hot sauce and chili powder. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more hot sauce or sprinkle in cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, you can omit the hot sauce entirely.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to the simmering step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, stir in the cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbly and melted for a freshly cooked feel.

What kind of cheese works best for this casserole?

The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the casserole a beautiful balance of sharp flavor and meltiness. You could also experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a smoky gouda for different nuances.

Final Thoughts

This Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe is a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy nights or whenever you want a reliable comfort meal. Its layers of flavor, ease of preparation, and cheesy goodness make it a true kitchen staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and add your own personal touches—get ready for some serious family dinner love!

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Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe

Family Hamburger Helper Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 70 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This Family Hamburger Helper Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, macaroni, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it is easy to prepare and packed with flavor, offering a homemade twist on the classic boxed hamburger helper.

Ingredients

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 1 carrot (diced)
  • 1 celery stalk (diced)
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • 1 green onion (sliced)

Meat

  • 1 lb ground beef

Pasta

  • 12 oz macaroni

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1.5 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1.5 tsp salt
  • 0.75 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Cheese

  • 2.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
  • 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables and Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, carrot, and celery; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add Spices and Sauces: Stir in the chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to evenly coat the meat and vegetables. Then add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and hot sauce; stir to combine.
  3. Add Macaroni and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the macaroni pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Incorporate Corn and Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the corn and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheese starts to melt and the casserole is creamy.
  5. Top and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Cover the skillet with a lid for a few minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt completely. Garnish with sliced green onion before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
  • For a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk or cream before adding the cheese.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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