Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you're a fan of comfort food, the Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a must-try dish that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or prepping for a potluck, this hearty, cheesy casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from the ingredients you’ll need, how to cook the perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole, tips for variations, and some expert serving suggestions. Dive in and discover how to create this delicious comfort dish that everyone will love. Read on to find out how you can make this recipe your own!

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a rich and filling dish that combines ground beef, cheese, pasta, and vegetables in a creamy, savory sauce. This casserole is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a convenient, one-dish meal that the whole family can enjoy. It’s a budget-friendly option that tastes indulgent, making it a popular choice for busy weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings. The best part? You can customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

The following ingredients will give you a classic Hamburger Supreme Casserole that’s cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. Adjust the quantities depending on the number of people you're serving.

1. 1 lb ground beef – The star of the dish. You can use lean beef or switch it up with ground turkey for a lighter version.
2. 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni – This pasta adds substance and absorbs the flavors of the dish. Substitute with other small pasta if desired.
3. 1 medium onion, diced – For flavor and a touch of sweetness.
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for adding depth to the overall taste.
5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Provides moisture and a subtle acidic tang to balance the richness.
6. 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy base for the casserole.
7. 1 cup sour cream – Adds tangy creaminess to the dish.
8. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – This gives the casserole its rich, gooey cheese layer.
9. ¼ cup milk – Helps to thin out the sauce slightly for the perfect consistency.
10. 1 teaspoon salt – Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
11. ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick and rounds out the dish’s flavor.
12. 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced – Adds a slight crunch and sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For an extra smoky flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – If you like a bit of heat in your casseroles.
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn – A great way to incorporate more vegetables into the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about the Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some variations and substitutions that you can make to suit your dietary preferences or simply change things up:

1. Meat Variations: Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat substitutes or skip the meat altogether and add more vegetables.
2. Pasta Substitutes: If you don’t have elbow macaroni, feel free to use other types of pasta such as rotini, penne, or shells. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be substituted to accommodate dietary needs.
3. Cheese Choices: While cheddar is the go-to, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack can all give the dish a different cheesy twist.
4. Creamy Base Variations: If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or cream of celery can be used instead. For a dairy-free option, you can use a plant-based creamy soup alternative.
5. Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional content and make the casserole more filling.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the Hamburger Supreme Casserole is incredibly simple and doesn't require a lot of hands-on time. Follow these steps for a flawless casserole every time:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef up with a spatula as it cooks.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and drain any excess fat. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, cooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Layer and Assemble the Casserole

Pour half of the mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pour the remaining mixture over the cheese layer, then top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Let it Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.

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

To summarize, here’s a quick step-by-step guide for making the Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease your baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta and drain it.
3. Brown the ground beef, and sauté the onions and garlic.
4. Mix the beef, pasta, vegetables, and sauce ingredients.
5. Layer the mixture with cheese in a baking dish.
6. Bake, first covered, then uncovered to allow the cheese to brown.
7. Let the casserole rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until it's just al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy during baking.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest after it comes out of the oven helps the flavors to develop and gives the dish a firmer texture.
• Using too much liquid: Avoid adding extra liquid, as the tomatoes and cream soup will already provide enough moisture. Too much liquid can result in a soupy casserole.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A well-presented Hamburger Supreme Casserole can turn a simple dinner into an elegant meal. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Family-Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish in the center of the table. Let everyone scoop their own portion for a relaxed, family-style meal.
• Individual Portions: Scoop out individual portions onto plates, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Layering: The layers of beef, pasta, and cheese naturally create a visually appealing dish. When you cut into the casserole, each slice should show these delicious layers.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra handful of shredded cheese on top adds a finishing touch.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze. To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Customizable Toppings: Consider adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking for an added crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next day. Just store it in the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked casserole, and when ready to cook, thaw overnight and bake as usual.

Q: What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives if you don’t want to use beef.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a versatile, hearty, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or serving up on a cozy weeknight. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, it’s a guaranteed winner. The layers of cheesy goodness and flavorful beef will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to try out the variations and tips mentioned to make this recipe truly your own. Enjoy your cooking!

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