Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe is packed with flavors, from juicy ground beef to gooey melted cheese, all combined in a creamy, hearty pasta casserole. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick but still crave a satisfying meal. Read on to discover how you can make this comforting casserole at home, with step-by-step instructions, tips, and ideas to make it your own!

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What is Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a classic American comfort food that combines ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese blend. It’s a one-pan dish that delivers a mix of savory, creamy, and cheesy flavors in every bite. The casserole is topped with melted cheese, creating a golden crust that’s simply irresistible. It’s the perfect recipe for those who need a filling, easy-to-make meal that’s also family-friendly and ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional for added flavor and crunch)
• 2 cups (about 200g) uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne works best)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• ½ cup beef broth or water
• 1 cup sour cream or cream cheese (for a creamy texture)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra gooeyness)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use sausage for a spicier flavor.
• Pasta: Feel free to swap the pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options. Rotini, shells, or fusilli work just as well.
• Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
• Vegetables: Add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to make it more nutritious.
• Sauce: Replace tomato paste with marinara sauce if you prefer a smoother and slightly sweeter sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking instructions to make this Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole.

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

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Add the Sauce Ingredients:
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine with Creamy Mixture:
   • Reduce the heat to low, and mix in the sour cream or cream cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, switch to the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Draining the Fat: Ensure you drain the excess fat from the ground beef. Too much fat can make the casserole greasy.
• Overcooking the Pasta: The pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so make sure it’s just al dente to avoid mushy results.
• Skipping the Broil: Don’t miss the broil step if you want a crispy, golden cheese crust on top.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Casseroles can sometimes look a bit plain, but with a few tips, you can make this Hamburger Supreme Casserole look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Serve it hot, straight out of the oven. Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out servings, making sure to get a bit of that cheesy topping with each portion.
• Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Use a Cast Iron Skillet: Bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, cozy look.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top right before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.
• Serve in Individual Ramekins: For a fun twist, consider baking and serving the casserole in individual ramekins.

Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven until heated through.
• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare and freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Double the Recipe: This dish is great for feeding a crowd. Double the ingredients and use two baking dishes if you have a larger group to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole without cheese? A: Yes, you can leave out the cheese, but it will alter the texture and flavor. Consider adding more sour cream or cream cheese for creaminess.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Any short pasta works well, such as rotini, bowties, or rigatoni.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian? A: Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe? A: Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like corn, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

The Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is more than just a quick meal; it’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're serving it at a gathering or preparing it for a busy weeknight, this casserole delivers on taste, texture, and satisfaction. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that warms both the stomach and the soul. Happy cooking!

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