Introduction:
Satisfy your cravings with this Hamburger Casserole, a comforting dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese into a warm, hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a family favorite!
Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Hamburger casserole is a classic comfort food that brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious one-dish meal. It’s a go-to recipe for many families, offering both flavor and convenience.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work well)
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat. - Add Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. - Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked pasta, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. - Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. - Bake:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Casserole:
- Brown the Beef Well: Searing the beef enhances the flavor of the casserole.
- Pasta Choice: Use a pasta that holds sauce well, like rotini or penne.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses for added flavor.
Variations and Customizations:
- Vegetable Boost: Add frozen mixed vegetables or fresh bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Different Proteins: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- Balanced Meal: This casserole is a great source of protein and can be balanced with vegetables.
- Portion Control: You can easily adjust the recipe to make smaller or larger portions.
FAQ:
Can I freeze hamburger casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for added fiber.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 15 ounce cans tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon white sugar or to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt or to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1 8 ounce package egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 large white onion finely diced
- ½ cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese or more to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.
- Mix tomato sauce, sugar, garlic salt, and salt into the ground beef; simmer until flavors blend, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and cover the skillet.
- While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, 7 to 9 minutes. Drain.
- While the egg noodles are cooking, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix sour cream, cream cheese, and onion together in a bowl.
- Layer 1/2 of the egg noodles into the prepared casserole dish. Top with 1/2 of the sour cream mixture, then 1/2 of the ground beef mixture. Repeat layers once more. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted and golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes.
Notes
Calories 507
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 33g 42%
Saturated Fat 16g 78%
Cholesterol 134mg 45%
Sodium 975mg 42%
Total Carbohydrate 23g 8%
Dietary Fiber 3g 11%
Total Sugars 9g
Protein 31g 61%
Vitamin C 12mg 14%
Calcium 239mg 18%
Iron 4mg 24%
Potassium 873mg 19%
