Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe

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There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a heartwarming casserole that combines juicy beef with rich cheeses and fresh veggies. This Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe is one of my personal favorites when I want a dish that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. Cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess that balances the savory browned beef, while cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully to create a golden, bubbly crust that everyone will want seconds of. It’s a perfect recipe to bring people together and fill the kitchen with the most inviting aromas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the savory ground beef to the melty trio of cheeses and the bright notes of onion and bell pepper, every bite is packed with flavor and texture.

• 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred): Provides the hearty, meaty base that makes this casserole filling and flavorful.
• ½ cup diced onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of texture contrast.
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (any color): Brings vibrant color and a mild crunch to brighten the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a delicious depth of flavor and warmth.
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (drained, 1 can): Adds moisture and a touch of acidity to balance richness.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Boosts the tomato flavor with a concentrated savory punch.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with herbaceous notes.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and piquancy.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens umami and brings savory complexity.
• 8 ounces dry shell pasta (½ box): The perfect pasta shape to hold creamy sauce and meat mixture.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (room temperature, cut into cubes): Melts into a smooth, creamy coating that ties everything together.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess and richness to the pasta base.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (⅜ stick): Infuses the dish with silkiness and a luscious mouthfeel.
• ½ cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: Melts with a sharp, savory punch on top.
• ½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that gooey, stretchy texture loved by all cheese fans.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to finish.

How to Make Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This simple prep step ensures your casserole won’t stick and helps the final bake come out perfectly golden and ready to serve.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until there’s no pink left. This step is crucial because the beef develops a rich, savory flavor that forms the backbone of the entire dish. Once cooked, drain off excess fat by transferring the beef to a paper towel-lined bowl.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the leftover fat in the skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their sweetness. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to deepen the aroma. This combo adds a fresh, vibrant layer of flavors that play beautifully against the beef’s richness.

Step 4: Combine Meat and Seasonings

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and intensify before setting it aside for the next step.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the meat simmers, boil the shell pasta according to the package directions. Drain it well and transfer it to a large bowl, ready to be mixed with the creamy components.

Step 6: Mix Pasta with Cream Cheese and Butter

Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and melted butter to the hot pasta. Stir everything well until the pasta is thoroughly coated in this rich, velvety mixture—this is what makes the casserole irresistibly creamy and indulgent.

Step 7: Layer the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish, spread half of the creamy pasta mixture evenly on the bottom. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the pasta, then repeat with the remaining pasta and meat. Finally, top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Layering creates a delightful balance in every scoop.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For an extra special touch, broil for 1 to 2 minutes to get that gorgeous golden crust. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can settle and the dish is easier to portion.

How to Serve Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top not only adds vibrant green color but also a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the creamy richness. You can also add a little cracked black pepper or a dusting of smoked paprika for a subtle kick and visual interest.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also make excellent companions, providing freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this hamburger casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets instead of a large dish—perfect for a cozy dinner with friends. Adding a layering of sautéed mushrooms or swapping in spicy pepper jack cheese can create exciting variations to surprise your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal again without any fuss.

Freezing

This Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in several layers of plastic and aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it an excellent option for meal planning or busy nights.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until warmed through—about 20 minutes. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heat distribution.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While shell pasta works great because it holds sauce well, you can substitute with penne, elbow macaroni, or even rotini. Just be sure to cook according to package directions and drain thoroughly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and adjust seasonings as needed. The creamy cheese layers will still give you that rich, indulgent texture you love.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you need a substitute, softened ricotta or mascarpone cheese can work in a pinch, though cream cheese gives the best balance of tang and creaminess for this recipe.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or swapping the bell peppers for diced jalapeños. You can also use pepper jack cheese in place of or alongside the cheddar and mozzarella to add a gentle kick.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels both indulgent and homey, give this Hamburger Casserole with Cream Cheese, Cheddar, and Mozzarella Recipe a try. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion when you want to serve up something hearty and satisfying. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

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