Name: Hamburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: diced tomatoes or bell peppers

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Hamburger casserole is a delightful dish that brings all the comforting flavors of a classic hamburger into a warm and cheesy baked meal. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re looking for a filling meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or refrigerator, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 3 grams
Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheese, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting. This recipe is an excellent option for busy weeknights where you want something quick yet delicious on the table. The ability to customize with additional veggies or different cheese types makes it easy to adapt to your taste preferences and pantry staples.

How to Make Hamburger Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cups egg noodles
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: diced tomatoes or bell peppers

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly.

Step 2: Sautéing

In a skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Cooking

While the beef and onion are cooking, prepare the egg noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.

Step 4: Mixing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, egg noodles, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. If you like, you can also add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Step 5: Baking

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serving

Once finished, serve warm straight from the oven, and watch it disappear quickly!

How to Serve Hamburger Casserole

Hamburger casserole is perfect on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, consider garnishing each portion with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

How to Store Hamburger Casserole

Leftover hamburger casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Place it in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag, and it can last for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to reheat it thoroughly when you are ready to enjoy it again.

Expert Tips for Perfect Hamburger Casserole

Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a lovely twist.
Enhance the flavor by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture.
For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.

Delicious Variations

Vegetable Hamburger Casserole: Add in your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to boost the nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce for a flavorful kick.
Creamy Alfredo Casserole: Swap the cream of mushroom soup with Alfredo sauce for a creamy spin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with any pasta shape like rotini or penne. Just ensure the cooking time aligns with the pasta type you choose.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can use a homemade mushroom sauce or substitute with cream of chicken soup or a creamy cheese sauce.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream soup is gluten-free, or make a homemade version.
Is it okay to make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I add more cheese?
Yes! Adding extra cheese can enhance the creaminess and flavor of the casserole. Consider different cheese blends for uniqueness.

Conclusion

Hamburger casserole is a true comfort food that is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Its warm, cheesy goodness is sure to make it a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an effortless dinner solution, this dish promises satisfaction with every bite. Try it out, and you might just discover your new go-to recipe!