Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, hearty, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This rich and cheesy casserole combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and layers of creamy and flavorful ingredients into one delicious dish. Whether you’re making dinner for your family, a potluck, or simply want leftovers that will taste even better the next day, this recipe has you covered. Get ready to make a new family favorite!

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What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and filling casserole dish made primarily with ground beef (the “hamburger”), pasta, and a rich combination of cheeses and creamy ingredients. Typically baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is a spin on classic casseroles, with flavors that remind you of both lasagna and a cheeseburger all at once. The "supreme" element refers to the blend of ingredients that take it up a notch from your average hamburger casserole—extra layers of flavors from sour cream, cheeses, and veggies make this meal hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Beef (1 lb): Use lean ground beef for less grease, but regular ground beef will also work if drained.
• Egg Noodles (8 oz): The pasta base for this casserole. You can substitute with any other pasta like penne or elbow macaroni.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds flavor and sweetness.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds depth to the casserole.
• Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz): The base of the sauce that coats the beef and pasta.
• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds creaminess and tanginess.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): For a rich and creamy texture.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups): A key ingredient that makes this casserole cheesy and irresistible.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the sautéed vegetables and to the creamy mixture.
• Green Bell Pepper (1 small, diced): Adds a bit of crunch and sweetness.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced, optional): Adds an earthy flavor and more texture.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): For seasoning the beef mixture.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a little heat and balances the flavors.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds mild spiciness and color.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish at the end.

Optional Ingredients:

• Bacon (½ cup, cooked and crumbled): For an extra smoky, savory element.
• Jalapeños (optional, ¼ cup, diced): If you like a bit of heat.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (1 can, drained): For extra texture and moisture.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): For extra cheesy goodness and a nutty flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best parts about Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how adaptable it is. You can modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get a hearty, flavorful casserole.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or egg noodles if you're following a gluten-free diet. Ensure that your tomato sauce and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, or use extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Varieties: While egg noodles work great, you can also use other pasta types like penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles, cauliflower florets, or another low-carb alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Add any other veggies you love, like peas, carrots, or broccoli, for more color and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

With all your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the process of making Hamburger Supreme Casserole. Follow these easy instructions for a perfect, cheesy, and delicious casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden top.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, usually for about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together. If using mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or any other optional vegetables, you can add them to the beef mixture at this stage.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and well-combined. You can add a little salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by layering half of the cooked noodles on the bottom. Then, spread half of the beef mixture on top of the noodles. Next, spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the beef layer. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles, beef mixture, and creamy cheese mixture. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that perfect golden finish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once your casserole is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to cool slightly and firm up. Garnish with fresh parsley or any other herbs of your choice before serving.

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the egg noodles until al dente and set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then stir in the tomato sauce and seasonings.
4. Prepare the creamy cheese mixture by combining cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
5. Layer the noodles, beef mixture, and creamy cheese mixture in a baking dish.
6. Top with more shredded cheddar and bake for 25 minutes covered, then uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook your noodles just until al dente because they will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Skipping the Drain: Always drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Under-seasoning: Be sure to taste and season your beef mixture well. The combination of sour cream and cream cheese is rich, so the beef needs to be seasoned to balance it out.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking to help it firm up and make serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presenting your Hamburger Supreme Casserole beautifully is simple with a few easy tips:

• Slice and Serve Neatly: After resting the casserole for a few minutes, use a sharp knife to cut clean squares for serving.
• Garnish with Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of green onions can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the casserole with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the casserole.

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here are some serving suggestions for your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

• With a Crisp Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect side to complement the rich casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are great for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Add a healthy element with simple steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Elevate your casserole presentation with these ideas:

• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you want a rustic look, bake and serve the casserole directly in a cast-iron skillet.
• Individual Servings: Portion out the casserole into small ramekins or individual-sized dishes for personalized servings.
• Garnish with Fresh Ingredients: Brighten up the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, green onions, or even a drizzle of sour cream on top.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh when needed. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any short pasta like penne, macaroni, or rigatoni.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge and bake according to the recipe.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Make sure you don’t overcook the noodles and cover the casserole for most of the baking time to retain moisture. Also, use enough sauce and cream mixture to keep everything creamy and moist.

Conclusion

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory flavors of ground beef, rich cheeses, and tender pasta into one incredible dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is simple to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Follow the recipe tips and variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to pair it with a fresh salad or veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy!

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