Hamburger Casserole Recipe for Lunch & Dinner

Craving a comforting, hearty dinner option that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make? Look no further than this Hamburger Casserole recipe!

This dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with gooey cheddar cheese.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the secrets to crafting this delightful meal!

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Casserole is a baked dish featuring layers of ground beef, pasta, and a creamy sauce, crowned with melted cheese.

It’s a versatile, one-pan meal that delivers on flavor and comfort.

This dish blends textures and tastes beautifully—hearty meat, tender pasta, and rich, cheesy goodness—making it an instant crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients List for The Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – The base of the casserole, providing a savory depth.
• ½ cup onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and flavor.
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – Creates a rich, creamy sauce.
• ½ cup milk – Thins out the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni – Forms the hearty backbone of the dish.
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated – Adds cheesy, melty goodness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses subtle spice.
• ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Provides an aromatic, earthy note.
• 1 (4 oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained – Adds texture and umami.

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced bell peppers – For added color and crunch.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – For a smoky kick.

Substitutions and Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
• Pasta Choices: Substitute macaroni with penne, rotini, or shells.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and soup to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, peas, or spinach for added nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.

4. Create the Sauce

Add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and drained mushrooms to the beef mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

5. Assemble the Casserole

In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the beef mixture. Sprinkle a layer of cheddar cheese on top. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooked Pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Greasy Casserole: Be sure to drain the fat from the ground beef to prevent excess grease.
• Uneven Layers: Spread each layer evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect balance of flavors.
• Burnt Cheese: Watch the casserole during baking; if the cheese browns too quickly, cover with foil.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Family Style: Place the casserole on the table in its baking dish and let everyone serve themselves.
• Portioned Plates: For a more refined presentation, cut the casserole into squares and plate individually.

Presentation Ideas

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color.
• Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Layer Visibility: Use a clear glass baking dish to showcase the layers of pasta, beef, and cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy cream soup substitute.

Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
A: Substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Store cooled portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: How do I reheat this casserole?
A: Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp thyme
• 1 (4 oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained
• 2 cups uncooked macaroni
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown ground beef and onions. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and mushrooms. Heat until combined.
5. Layer half the pasta, beef mixture, and cheese in a greased casserole dish. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Cool slightly before serving.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.

With its combination of tender pasta, savory beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or preparing for a potluck, this casserole is a winning choice.

Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy every delicious bite!

Happy cooking!