Cheesy Macaroni Hamburger Dish

This cheesy macaroni hamburger casserole combines tender macaroni cooked just right with rich browned ground beef and softened onions. The creamy sauce made from Velveeta, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, Parmesan, and milk envelops the pasta and beef, creating a comforting dish. Topped with American cheese slices and crunchy crushed cracker crumbs, then baked until golden and bubbling, it makes a satisfying family dinner that feels like a warm hug.

I remember first making this for a busy weeknight and being amazed at how everyone fought over the leftovers the next day. It quickly became a weeknight favorite in my home because of its creamy texture and crispy topping.

Ingredients

• One pound ground beef: one of the best sources of hearty protein that browns beautifully
• One onion: chopped to add sweetness and depth when cooked down enhancing the overall flavor
• Two cups macaroni noodles: cooked al dente for perfect bite and texture that holds up in the casserole
• Eight ounces Velveeta cheese: melted for creamy smooth richness that forms the sauce’s base
• One can cheddar cheese soup: boosts cheesy flavor and adds extra creaminess
• Eight ounces sour cream: adds tang and a velvety texture to the sauce
• One half cup grated Parmesan cheese: provides a subtle nutty sharpness to balance the creamy elements
• One quarter cup milk: used to loosen the sauce slightly making it silky and easy to mix
• Eight slices American cheese: perfect for melting into a golden layer on top
• Half teaspoon onion powder: enhances the savory notes in the dish
• One teaspoon garlic powder: adds aromatic flavor depth
• Salt and pepper to taste: balance the seasoning
• One cup crushed Ritz cracker crumbs: adds buttery crunchy topping that complements the creamy casserole

Instructions

Searing the Beef and Onion:

Cook the ground beef and chopped onions over medium high heat until the beef is fully browned and the onions become translucent and tender. This process builds the foundational flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Melting the Cheese into Macaroni:

Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente then drain thoroughly. Return the warm noodles to the pot and stir in melted Velveeta cheese evenly so every piece is coated creating a luscious base for the casserole.

Mixing the Sauce:

Combine sour cream, cheddar cheese soup, onion powder, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and milk in a bowl or directly in the skillet used for the beef. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed. Add the cheesy macaroni and gently fold to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.

Assembling the Casserole:

Grease a 9 by 13inch baking dish well. Spread the mac and beef mixture evenly inside making sure to create a level surface for even cooking.

Adding Toppings:

Layer the American cheese slices over the casserole’s surface then sprinkle the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs evenly on top. This will melt and crisp in the oven creating a delightful textural contrast.

Baking to Perfection:

Place the uncovered casserole into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake 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 the layers and cool slightly.

The Velveeta cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it melts perfectly creating the creamy 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 storing to preserve texture. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate up to four days. When reheating, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. This casserole freezes wonderfully just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking again as directed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter protein alternatives without sacrificing flavor. For gluten free diets, choose gluten free macaroni and replace cracker crumbs with gluten free breadcrumbs. Swap American cheese slices for other good melting cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables are excellent sides to add freshness. A glass of lightly chilled white wine or a robust lemonade complements the meal perfectly.

Serve warm and enjoy with a simple side salad for a hearty family meal.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ 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 thoroughly 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. Adding chopped onions halfway enhances flavor and texture.

→ Can I substitute the Velveeta cheese with another type?

Processed cheeses like Velveeta melt smoothly, but sharp cheddar or a cheese blend can work if melted carefully to maintain creaminess.

→ What adds the crunchy topping on this dish?

Crushed Ritz cracker crumbs sprinkled over cheese slices create a golden, crispy crust when baked.

→ 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 used as lighter alternatives that still provide pleasant texture and taste.