Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week? Look no further than this mouthwatering Hamburger Casserole! This recipe is packed with savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a crowd-pleaser that your family will love. Read on to discover how to make this classic dish, explore variations, and learn some helpful tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

What is a Hamburger Casserole?

A Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a melty cheese blend. It's a versatile meal that can be easily customized to suit your family's taste preferences, and it makes excellent leftovers. This casserole is a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and nutritious.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Casserole

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious Hamburger Casserole:

• 8 ounces rotini or medium pasta
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 14 ounces pasta sauce (canned or jarred)
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes or petite diced tomatoes, lightly drained (1 can)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon McCormick dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon McCormick dried basil
• ½ teaspoon McCormick garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper, or to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar mozzarella blend

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Hamburger Casserole recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitution ideas and variations to try:

1. Pasta: Swap rotini for penne, fusilli, or any medium pasta shape you prefer.
2. Ground Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
3. Vegetables: Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can replace frozen mixed vegetables.
4. Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
6. Low Carb: Replace pasta with cooked cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Hamburger Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until heated through.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Mix in Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly mixed.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar mozzarella blend evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

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

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and cook until softened. Then, add the frozen mixed vegetables and continue cooking until they are heated through.

Combine Ingredients

Add the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined.

Mix in Pasta

Fold the cooked pasta into the skillet mixture, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce and evenly distributed with the beef and vegetables.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Add Cheese

Top the casserole with the shredded cheddar mozzarella blend, ensuring even coverage for a cheesy, melty top.

Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Serve

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it becoming mushy after baking.
2. Not Draining Tomatoes Properly: Lightly drain the diced tomatoes to prevent excess liquid in your casserole.
3. Underseasoning: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Skipping the Rest Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set and improves texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Hamburger Casserole can make it even more appealing. Here are some tips:

How to Serve Hamburger Casserole

1. Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal.
2. Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into individual portions and plate them.
3. Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Casserole

1. Cheese Topping: Before baking, reserve a small amount of cheese to sprinkle on top during the last 5 minutes for an extra gooey top layer.
2. Bread Crumbs: Add a crunchy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling over the cheese before baking.
3. Colorful Vegetables: Incorporate colorful vegetables like red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to enhance the visual appeal.

Hamburger Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
2. Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly, and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
3. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, any medium pasta shape will work. Penne, fusilli, or even macaroni are great options.

Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, do so from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Q: What can I serve with Hamburger Casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Hamburger Casserole is a delightful, hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it to your family's tastes, and it's a great make-ahead dish that can be enjoyed fresh or as leftovers. By following the tips and step-by-step instructions provided, you'll create a delicious casserole that's sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal that everyone will love!

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