Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Hamburger casserole recipe is a timeless dish that brings together hearty flavors and a comforting warmth, perfect for family dinners. Combining savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, hamburger casserole is always a hit. Let’s dive into its origins, the step-by-step recipe, and a few tips to make it truly unforgettable.

A Brief History of Hamburger Casserole Recipe:

Casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century. The term “casserole” comes from the French word for a deep dish used for baking. The hamburger casserole became popular in the mid-1900s as an affordable and convenient way to feed families. With the rise of processed ingredients like canned soups and boxed pasta, this dish evolved into the creamy, cheesy comfort food we know today. Over time, home cooks have adapted the recipe to suit their tastes, making it a versatile favorite.

Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century. The term “casserole” comes from the French word for a deep dish used for baking. The hamburger casserole became popular in the mid-1900s as an affordable and convenient way to feed families. With the rise of processed ingredients like canned soups and boxed pasta, this dish evolved into the creamy, cheesy comfort food we know today.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Large pot
• Baking dish (9x13 inch)
• Mixing spoon
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups (200g) uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 can (10.5 oz/300g) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup (100g) frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)

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Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:

  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Prepare****Cook the Pasta:

  Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

  Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), cream of mushroom soup, milk, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• ombine Ingredients:

  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  Add the cooked macaroni and optional mixed vegetables to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to evenly coat the pasta.
• Assemble the Casserole:

  Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

  Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake:

  Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

  Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Serve:

  Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Video

Keyword Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Similar Recipes to Try:

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole: A crispy, cheesy twist featuring tater tots instead of pasta.

Shepherd’s Pie: A classic meat and potato dish with a creamy mashed potato topping.

Sloppy Joe Casserole: Combines the tangy flavors of sloppy joes with a biscuit or cornbread topping.

Chicken and Rice Casserole: A creamy, hearty alternative with tender chicken and fluffy rice.

Vegetarian Pasta Bake: A meatless version loaded with fresh veggies and cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hamburger Casserole Recipe:

1. Can I make hamburger casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

2. Can I freeze hamburger casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

3. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

Substitute with cream of chicken soup, or cream of celery soup, or make a homemade roux with butter, flour, and milk.

4. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the soup with a gluten-free version.

5. Can I make it healthier?

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken, low-fat cheese, and add extra veggies.

8. What side dishes go well with hamburger casserole?
Serve with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread.

9. Can I add more spices?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with chili powder, cumin, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, chop fresh tomatoes and add a splash of water or broth to make up for the liquid in the canned version.

Conclusion:

Hamburger casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting tradition that brings people together. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent choice for any home cook. By following these easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to impress your family or guests. Try it tonight and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

YouTube Video credits:
ThePohto Southern Cooking