Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that will please the whole family? This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a go-to dish for busy weeknights. Packed with ground beef, creamy layers of cheese, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this casserole is simple yet delicious, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Read on to learn how to make this mouthwatering meal and how to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive in!

What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a classic baked dish that combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a savory sauce. It's designed to be a filling and hearty meal, combining comfort and flavor in one easy-to-make casserole. The ground beef is cooked and seasoned, layered with cooked pasta and cheese, then baked to a bubbly perfection in the oven. The result is a cheesy, savory dish that can be served on its own or with a side salad or vegetables.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef: The base of the casserole, providing protein and savory flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a layer of sweetness and texture to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor profile with a mild, aromatic bite.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Forms the primary sauce, creating a rich, tangy base.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and a slight freshness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: For a hint of herby flavor that ties the dish together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances the flavors and enhances the savory ingredients.
• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or macaroni): A hearty component that complements the meat and cheese.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy layer to the casserole.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that melty, cheesy goodness that ties the dish together.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds another layer of cheesy richness to the top of the casserole.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, adding flavor to the base of the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground beef alternatives: You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian version of the casserole.
• Cheese swaps: While cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for spice, or a sharper cheese like gouda for a richer flavor.
• Pasta alternatives: If you prefer a different type of pasta, try using shells, ziti, or even gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
• Add-ins: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional content of the dish.
• Low-carb option: To make the dish low-carb, replace the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Hamburger Supreme Casserole.

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta of choice according to the package directions, but aim for al dente as the pasta will cook more when baked. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the beef and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
3. Prepare the sauce: Add the tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the browned beef mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Mix with sour cream and cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated. This will create a creamy, cheesy base for the casserole.
5. Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, begin by spreading half of the pasta mixture in the bottom of the dish. Then spoon half of the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta. Top with half of the remaining cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Let it rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

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

1. Prepare the ingredients: Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
2. Cook pasta al dente: Avoid overcooking the pasta since it will continue to bake in the oven. Al dente pasta holds up better and won’t become mushy.
3. Season your beef: Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning in your beef mixture before assembling the casserole to ensure balanced flavors.
4. Layer with care: Proper layering ensures that each bite gets a perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking pasta: This is one of the most common mistakes when making casseroles. Pasta should be al dente before baking so that it doesn't become too soft.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can result in a messy presentation. Allowing it to rest will help the layers set.
• Not seasoning enough: Don’t forget to taste as you cook! Ground beef can be bland if it isn’t properly seasoned.
• Too much or too little cheese: While this is a cheesy dish, using too much cheese can make the casserole greasy, while too little cheese can make it dry. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when serving a family meal or hosting guests. Here’s how you can take your Hamburger Supreme Casserole to the next level.

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil over the top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with sides: This casserole pairs well with a light side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
• Single-serving portions: For a dinner party, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins. This makes for a lovely presentation and portion control.

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to serve it alongside other dishes, consider offering some light, fresh sides. A crisp Caesar salad, a slice of crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables would make for a balanced meal. For a healthier twist, you can also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Cast Iron Skillet: Bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• Layered Glass Dish: If you’re using a clear baking dish, the layers of the casserole will be visible, adding visual appeal to the dish.
• Sprinkle extra cheese on top: Before serving, add a little extra cheese on top of each portion and place under the broiler for a minute or two to create a golden, crispy top.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Freeze for later: If you want to make it even more convenient, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole. Simply cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Double the recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week. Just use a larger baking dish or divide the mixture between two smaller dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this casserole?
A: Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, the casserole freezes well. Assemble it and freeze before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, or bake straight from frozen, adding about 20-30 minutes to the bake time.

Q: What can I serve with the casserole?
A: Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies to complement the richness of the casserole.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness with a hearty twist that the whole family will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit your preferences, making it a staple recipe you can come back to again and again. Whether you're serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for a family gathering, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try today and experience comfort food at its best!

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