Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole

This Cheesy Macaroni and Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners. Combining tender macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 1 lb, providing a savory and rich base for the casserole.
• Onion: 1, chopped, adding a sweet and flavorful element.
• Macaroni noodles: 2 cups, cooked until al dente, serving as the hearty foundation.
• Velveeta cheese: 8 oz, melted to create a creamy and smooth cheese sauce.
• Cheddar cheese soup: 1 can, enhancing the cheesy flavor.
• Onion powder: ½ tsp, adding a subtle onion flavor.
• Garlic powder: 1 tsp, providing a savory depth.
• Sour cream: 8 oz, adding creaminess and tang.
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, grated, contributing a salty and nutty flavor.
• Milk: ¼ cup, helping to create a smooth sauce.
• American cheese slices: 8 slices, melted on top for a gooey finish.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
• Ritz cracker crumbs: 1 cup, crushed, providing a crunchy topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Cook the macaroni noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the excess water and return the noodles to the pot. Add the Velveeta cheese to the pot and stir until melted and combined with the noodles.

Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the sour cream, cheddar cheese soup, onion powder, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and milk. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to combine everything thoroughly. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Place the American cheese slices evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs over the cheese slices to create a crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions on medium power.
• This casserole can also be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the Ritz cracker crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Tips from well-known chefs

• Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
• Jamie Oliver recommends adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for extra depth of flavor.
• Nigella Lawson loves topping casseroles with a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese for an extra crunchy topping.