Why Make This Recipe
Hamburger casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the best elements of a classic hamburger in a simple baked format. It’s a great way to serve a hearty meal for the whole family without much fuss. With its melty cheese, savory beef, and pasta, this casserole satisfies those cravings for something warm and filling.
This recipe is also quite versatile, allowing for substitutions based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones.
Equipment Needed For Hamburger Casserole
To create a delicious hamburger casserole, you’ll need the following equipment:
- A medium pot for boiling pasta
- A large skillet for cooking beef and vegetables
- A 13×9 inch baking dish to hold the casserole
- A spatula to break up and stir the ingredients
- A sharp knife and a cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
What You Need to Make Hamburger Casserole
To prepare a tasty hamburger casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 6 oz. shredded cheddar (about 1 1/2 c.), divided
- 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
How to Cook Hamburger Casserole Step by Step
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is very al dente—about two minutes less than what the package instructions suggest. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a 13×9 inch baking dish.
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef in large chunks and let it cook undisturbed for about four minutes. This helps to achieve a deep brown color on the bottom. Once browned, break up the meat with a spatula and continue to cook, stirring occasionally until no pink remains, which should take around four more minutes. Once cooked through, transfer the beef to the baking dish with the pasta.
Next, reduce the heat on the skillet to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, which should take about five to seven minutes. After that, add the diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and one cup of water. Season this mixture with freshly ground black pepper and one teaspoon of salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then transfer the mixture to the baking dish with the pasta and beef.
Add three ounces of shredded cheddar cheese to the baking dish, stirring until it’s evenly distributed throughout. Top the casserole with the remaining three ounces of cheddar cheese, and if you like, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and bubbly, which will take about 10 to 12 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and top with chopped romaine lettuce for a fresh crunch.
If you prefer to make the hamburger casserole ahead of time, it can be assembled without baking a day in advance. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook. When you’re set to serve it, simply bake it in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes.
How To Make Hamburger Casserole
Making a hamburger casserole is about combining flavors and cooking techniques. You start by preparing the pasta, which serves as a base for the meal. The key is to ensure the macaroni is cooked to a perfect al dente texture. This prevents it from becoming mushy during the baking process.
Cooking the ground beef and vegetables adds depth to the dish. It’s essential to allow the beef to brown nicely before breaking it up, as this will enhance the flavor. The onion and garlic should become soft, which adds sweetness and aroma to the mix.
When combining all the ingredients in the baking dish, you create a well-balanced dish. Mixing in the cheese allows it to melt beautifully, creating that savory layer we often associate with casseroles. Baking it ensures all the flavors meld together, making every bite a delightful experience.
How To Serve Hamburger Casserole
When it comes to serving hamburger casserole, presentation can elevate the dish. Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This cooling time lets the layers set, making it easier to scoop portions. You can serve it directly from the baking dish or transfer it to a large serving bowl if you prefer a more formal presentation.
Garnish with additional chopped romaine lettuce on top, along with a drizzle of extra ketchup or a dollop of mayonnaise if desired. This adds a fresh element to each serving and can enhance the taste. Encourage your guests to enjoy it while it’s hot for a comforting meal that warms the soul.
What To Serve With Hamburger Casserole
Hamburger casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad is a great option to balance the richness of the casserole. A fresh Caesar salad can provide a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
For additional heartiness, consider serving garlic bread or crusty rolls on the side. These can be used to scoop up the casserole or enjoyed with a bit of butter. If you want something veggie-based, consider steamed broccoli or green beans, which can complement the meal without overpowering it.
How To Store Hamburger Casserole
To store any leftover hamburger casserole, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out in the fridge. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about three to five days.
If you want to store the casserole for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion the casserole into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove excess air. In the freezer, it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Tips To Make Hamburger Casserole
To ensure that your hamburger casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep a few key tips in mind. First, don’t rush the browning of the beef, as this adds a lot of flavors. Make sure to break up the meat into small chunks for even cooking.
Always taste your mixture before baking. This is your chance to adjust seasoning to your liking. Adding a pinch more salt or some spices can make a significant difference in flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheese types; mozzarella or pepper jack can yield exciting flavor results.
Lastly, if you are short on time, consider using pre-cooked pasta or rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef. This can save you time while still allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal.
Variation
While this hamburger casserole recipe is delightful as is, there are plenty of variations to try. Consider adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional nutrition and flavors. You might sauté these along with the onions and garlic for a deeper taste.
For a spicier kick, you could also mix in some diced jalapeños or use spicy ground beef. If you’re a fan of different culinary traditions, try adding taco seasoning to the meat mixture and top it with guacamole after baking for a fun twist.
Best Time To Make Hamburger Casserole
Hamburger casserole is a flexible meal option that can be enjoyed any time of the year. However, it shines particularly well during colder months when comfort foods are most appreciated. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a busy weeknight when you need a quick meal.
Consider making it on a lazy weekend when you want to have leftovers for easy lunches during the week. It’s also great for meal prep, so make a double batch if you enjoy it!
Common Mistakes To Avoid
To make sure your hamburger casserole turns out perfectly, watch out for a few common mistakes. One frequent error is overcooking the pasta initially, which leads to a mushy consistency once baked. Remember to stop cooking before it’s fully done, as the oven will complete the cooking process.
Ensure you don’t sous-season your mixture. It’s important to taste the mixture before adding it to the baking dish, adjusting seasoning can enhance the entire dish. Also, ensure even cooking by breaking the beef into small pieces rather than cooking large chunks.
Lastly, don’t skip the cooling step before serving, letting the casserole sit for a few minutes allows it to hold its shape better when serving.
Nutritional Notes
Hamburger casserole is a comforting dish that provides a good balance of nutrients. It offers a source of protein from the ground beef, fiber from the elbow macaroni, and essential vitamins from vegetables like onions and lettuce.
While it’s hearty, be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake. You can also opt for lean ground beef or turkey to reduce fat content. Adding more vegetables can increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Can I make hamburger casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare hamburger casserole a day ahead without baking it. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze hamburger casserole?
Absolutely! Just allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags to freeze for up to three months.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you are looking for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Conclusion
Hamburger casserole combines the flavors of a classic burger into an easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With its savory ingredients and melty cheese, it’s bound to become a family favorite. The recipe is straightforward, allowing for personal touches and variations based on your preferences. Make it ahead of time for convenience or enjoy it fresh from the oven. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience perfect for gathering around the dinner table.
Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a medium pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until very al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and transfer to a 13x9 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef in large chunks. Cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes to achieve browning. Break up the meat and cook until no pink remains, about 4 more minutes. Add to the baking dish with pasta.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add chopped onion and garlic, stirring for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and 1 cup of water. Season with black pepper and salt, then stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish with pasta and beef. Stir in 3 oz. of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly mixed. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and optional sesame seeds.
- Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-12 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with chopped romaine lettuce before serving.
- If making ahead, assemble the casserole without baking. Cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for 12-15 minutes.
