Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy your family’s hunger? Look no further! This Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Packed with ground beef, pasta, cheese, and savory seasonings, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Stick around as we break down this recipe in detail and provide some handy tips, variations, and substitutions that will make this recipe a staple in your kitchen. Read on to discover how you can make this mouth-watering casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a baked dish that combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and often a creamy sauce into a savory and filling meal. It's a layered casserole that's perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead of time for easy meal prep. With its blend of hearty beef, rich cheese, and soft pasta, this casserole is a hit among both kids and adults alike. The dish’s versatility allows for multiple variations depending on your tastes, so you can easily customize it to fit your preferences.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

To make the ultimate Hamburger Supreme Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef (preferably 80/20 for best flavor and texture)
• 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients for the Topping

• ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Substitutions and Variations

There are numerous ways to make this Hamburger Supreme Casserole your own. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this casserole.
2. Pasta Varieties: Instead of elbow macaroni, try penne, rotini, or even egg noodles.
3. Cheese Choices: You can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Colby to change up the flavor. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand.
4. Vegetable Add-ins: Add some vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to incorporate extra nutrients. You could even throw in a handful of spinach for a pop of color and vitamins.
5. Low Carb Version: If you’re watching your carbs, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
6. Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier casserole, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to whip up a delightful Hamburger Supreme Casserole? Follow these simple steps, and you'll have dinner ready in no time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your casserole is assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni or pasta of your choice according to package instructions, but slightly undercook it (about 1-2 minutes less) so it doesn’t become mushy when baked. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Mix in the Other Ingredients

Once the beef is browned, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and sour cream. Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld and the mixture becomes creamy and rich.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Beef Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, pour the pasta and beef mixture. Spread it out evenly, then top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping

For an extra crunchy and flavorful topping, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to slightly undercook the pasta before baking. It will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooked pasta can become too soft or mushy.
2. Not Draining the Meat: Always drain the excess fat after browning the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Be generous with the seasonings when browning the beef to ensure the casserole has depth of flavor.
4. Forgetting the Crunchy Topping: The breadcrumb or cracker topping adds a delightful contrast in texture. Don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is just as important as taste when it comes to serving your Hamburger Supreme Casserole. Here are some ideas to help you elevate the presentation of this dish.

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

1. Family Style: Serve the casserole straight out of the dish at the center of the table, and allow everyone to help themselves. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
2. Portion it Out: Spoon the casserole into individual plates and add some garnishes like fresh parsley or chives. This makes it feel more refined and adds a pop of color.
3. With a Side Dish: Complement the casserole with garlic bread or a warm roll on the side to make the meal even heartier.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

1. Individual Servings: For a more polished look, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins. Each person gets their own mini casserole, which feels extra special and looks great on the plate.
2. Topped with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions adds not only color but also freshness that contrasts well with the rich flavors of the dish.
3. Cheese Pull Moment: To impress your family or guests, serve the casserole hot from the oven and highlight that cheesy goodness by encouraging a cheese pull as the first slice is served.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance. Simply assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
2. Freezer Friendly: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your cream of mushroom soup and breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: The best way to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the texture, especially if you want the crunchy topping to stay crispy.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With its combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The recipe’s flexibility allows for endless variations, so you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is a reliable and delicious choice. So why not give it a try? Happy cooking!

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