Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a new family favorite meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, this Hamburger Supreme Casserole will check all the boxes! This cheesy, beefy, and savory dish combines the deliciousness of ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping, creating a comforting and satisfying meal everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, preparing a meal for a gathering, or looking for something to enjoy for leftovers, this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the perfect choice.

Ready to make the most delicious casserole ever? Keep reading to discover the ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting this classic comfort food.

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a baked dish that brings together ground beef, pasta or potatoes, vegetables, cheese, and a creamy sauce. It’s often topped with crunchy breadcrumbs or cheese that melts to golden perfection. The recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. With a balance of textures and savory flavors, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for the week.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make the basic version of Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef (You can use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or egg noodles work best)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (optional), drained
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)

Additional Ingredients (Optional)

• 1 cup of frozen peas or mixed vegetables (adds color and nutrition to the dish)
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for an herby kick)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile, making it easy to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some simple substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegan or Vegetarian: Use plant-based meat alternatives and swap the dairy ingredients with vegan-friendly options like dairy-free cheese, sour cream, and almond milk.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options such as crushed rice crackers or gluten-free bread crumbs.
• Cheese Varieties: While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Lower Carb: Substitute the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb version of the casserole.

Now that you have your ingredients ready and a few ideas for customization, let’s move on to the cooking instructions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook the mixture until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In the same skillet with the browned ground beef, stir in the cooked pasta, creamy mixture, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and diced tomatoes (if using). Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top, followed by the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This gives the dish time to set and makes it easier to serve.

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

Cooking the Hamburger Supreme Casserole is simple and straightforward. Here’s a summary of the key steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
3. Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in a skillet.
4. Mix the creamy sauce ingredients together.
5. Combine everything in the skillet and transfer to a baking dish.
6. Top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until golden brown.
7. Cool slightly, then serve and enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is easy, here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when baked, so overcooking it beforehand can lead to mushy pasta.
• Skipping the seasoning: Be sure to season the ground beef well with salt, pepper, and any additional spices. This ensures that your casserole is packed with flavor.
• Forgetting to drain the beef: After browning the beef, drain any excess fat. Leaving too much grease in the dish can make the casserole heavy and greasy.
• Not covering the casserole while baking: If your casserole topping is browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil during the first part of the bake.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A great casserole doesn’t just taste good—it should look appetizing as well! Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Portion out with a spatula: Since casseroles are thick and hearty, use a large spatula to serve individual portions. Cut through the layers to keep the structure intact as you serve.
• Serve with a side salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect pairing.
• Add a vegetable side: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots complement the flavors of the casserole and add a healthy side to the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in individual dishes: If you’re serving a small group, you can portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. It adds a gourmet touch and makes for easy serving.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream: A small dollop of sour cream on each portion adds creaminess and visual appeal.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
• Freeze for later: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Double the recipe: This casserole is perfect for doubling if you’re cooking for a crowd or want extra for leftovers. Use two baking dishes, or one large dish, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?
A: Yes! While elbow macaroni and egg noodles are popular choices, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Frozen peas, corn, green beans, or diced bell peppers are great additions to this casserole. Simply mix them in with the beef and pasta.

Q: Can I make this casserole without cheese?
A: Yes, but cheese adds a lot of flavor and creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Q: How long will the casserole last in the fridge?
A: The casserole will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

There you have it—a complete guide to making the ultimate Hamburger Supreme Casserole! This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a meal for the week ahead. With its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and comforting appeal, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal. Happy cooking!

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