If you’re looking for a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, look no further than this Hamburger Casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner, this dish combines classic comfort with simple ingredients to create a meal everyone will love.
What is Hamburger Casserole?
Hamburger Casserole is a savory, one-dish meal that features ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s like a baked version of a hamburger, packed with flavors and textures that make it a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy Hamburger Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef: Use lean beef to keep the dish hearty yet not overly greasy.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds flavor and a bit of sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an extra boost of flavor.
- 2 cups cooked pasta: Choose your favorite type, such as elbow macaroni or rotini.
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy element and moisture.
- 1 cup frozen peas: For a pop of color and added nutrition.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a cheesy goodness.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy base for the casserole.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a subtle herby flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the other seasonings.
How to Make Hamburger Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked beef mixture, cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
5. Add Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it hot with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Tips for Success
- Ground Beef Alternatives: For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn to boost the nutrition.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: With minimal prep and cooking time, this casserole is perfect for busy days.
- Family-Friendly: Its cheesy, comforting flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatility: You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let this delicious Hamburger Casserole slip through your fingers! It’s a go-to recipe that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort in one easy dish. Keep this recipe handy for those nights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Serving and Storage Tips for Hamburger Casserole
Serving Tips:
- Portion Control: Use a spatula to serve even portions. This casserole is filling, so a little goes a long way. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Garnish: Top each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese for an extra touch of flavor and color.
- Accompaniments: Serve with a side of garlic bread, crusty rolls, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
- Temperature: Hamburger Casserole is delicious both hot and warm. Let it cool for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze the casserole, ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator. To keep the casserole fresh, avoid reheating more than once.
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be cautious not to overcook, as this can dry out the casserole. Check periodically to ensure it’s heated to your liking.
With these serving and storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Hamburger Casserole for days to come while keeping it delicious and fresh.
1. Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with other types of ground meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each alternative will bring its own unique flavor and can be a healthier option depending on your dietary preferences. Just ensure that you cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
2. Can I make Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the casserole as directed, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
3. How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Hamburger Casserole, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom soup or make your own creamy sauce with vegetable broth and a little flour or cornstarch for thickening.
4. Can I freeze Hamburger Casserole?
Yes, Hamburger Casserole can be frozen. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.