Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, hearty meal that will satisfy your family’s cravings? Look no further than this Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe! It’s packed with flavor, filling, and incredibly easy to make. This casserole combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a meal that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making dinner for a busy weeknight or prepping for a potluck, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Keep reading to learn how to make this dish and how you can tweak it to suit your preferences!

What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a baked dish that features layers of seasoned ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked together in a casserole dish until bubbly and golden brown. It's the ultimate comfort food, combining the best elements of a hamburger with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd, and the leftovers are even better the next day! This recipe is easy to customize, making it perfect for a variety of palates and dietary preferences. Whether you like to keep things traditional or want to get creative, this dish can easily adapt to your needs.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for the Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe:

• 1 lb ground beef: Lean beef is ideal for a less greasy casserole, but you can use any variety.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic depth to the dish.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: A key ingredient for the creamy sauce.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and moisture.
• 1 cup sour cream: Makes the casserole rich and creamy.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor.
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture.
• 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow): The base of the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: For a bit of smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: To season the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional): For a crunchy topping.
• 2 tablespoon butter (optional): Used with the breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

Substitutions and Variations for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

One of the best things about this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how versatile it can be. Below are some easy substitutions and variations you can try based on what you have in your kitchen or your dietary preferences:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This swap reduces the fat content while still maintaining a delicious flavor.
2. Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or lentils for a meatless version. You can also use plant-based ground meat alternatives.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Simply replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and make sure your canned soup is gluten-free.
4. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
5. Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little heat in your casserole.
6. Healthier Options: Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, or use a lower-fat cheese to cut down on the calorie count.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready by the time you’re done prepping.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned. Drain off any excess fat.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, sour cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes until the flavors meld together.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the ground beef mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
8. Optional Topping: If using breadcrumbs, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and toss with ½ cup of breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture on top of the casserole.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is golden.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Cook Hamburger Supreme Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

This is a more detailed breakdown of the steps to help ensure you make the perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Browning the Beef Properly: It’s important to brown the beef thoroughly, as this adds a deep, savory flavor to your casserole. Make sure to cook it in an even layer over medium-high heat and drain any excess grease.
2. Cooking the Pasta Just Right: Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for al dente, so it remains firm after baking.
3. Simmering the Sauce: After adding the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and seasoning, let the sauce simmer long enough for the flavors to blend, around 5-7 minutes.
4. Layering for Maximum Flavor: Once you transfer everything to the casserole dish, make sure you spread it evenly to ensure each bite has a balance of beef, pasta, and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: This is a common mistake that can lead to mushy casserole. Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: For the best flavor, avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. Opt for freshly grated cheese.
• Forgetting to Drain the Meat: Failing to drain excess grease from the beef can make your casserole greasy.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Always let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to portion.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A casserole is a homey dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautifully presented. Here are some tips to elevate your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives will add a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve with Side Dishes: Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
3. Offer a Topping Bar: For an interactive meal, set out small bowls of toppings like sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Individual Portions: Instead of serving from a big dish, scoop out individual portions into small, decorative bowls or ramekins.
• Casserole Platter: Garnish the entire casserole with fresh herbs or a drizzle of sour cream in a zigzag pattern for added flair.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to bring the casserole back to its original glory.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.

2. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What pasta is best for this casserole?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works best as they hold up well during baking.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. With layers of seasoned ground beef, pasta, and creamy cheese, it's guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Best of all, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your personal tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you make it exactly as listed or add your own creative spin, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

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