Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal, the Hamburger Supreme Casserole is your answer! This delicious casserole combines savory ground beef, creamy sauces, tender pasta, and melty cheese for a dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight meal or looking for something to serve at a potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed hit. In this article, we'll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, covering everything from the ingredients and substitutions to serving tips and common mistakes to avoid. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious casserole, and bring a little "supreme" comfort to your kitchen tonight!

What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered dish typically made with ground beef, pasta or potatoes, a creamy sauce (often using sour cream or cream of mushroom soup), and plenty of cheese. It’s baked in the oven until everything is bubbly and golden, creating a delightful combination of textures—cheesy, creamy, and hearty. This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd, and its rich flavors make it the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it's incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here are the essential ingredients you'll need for this Hamburger Supreme Casserole. Feel free to add any optional ingredients for a personalized twist on this classic dish.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef works well, but you can also use regular ground beef if you prefer.
• 1 medium onion – Chopped finely to add flavor to the ground beef mixture.
• 2-3 cloves garlic – Minced, for an aromatic boost.
• 8 oz wide egg noodles – You can also substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – A creamy binder that holds the casserole together.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and richness to the casserole.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – For added moisture and flavor.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – A melty, cheesy topping that completes the dish.
• ½ cup milk – To thin the sauce for a smooth consistency.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and color.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning the beef and sauce.

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen peas or green beans – For a boost of veggies.
• ½ cup cream cheese – For an extra creamy sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For additional flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – For a spicy kick, if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is highly customizable. You can tweak it to suit different tastes, diets, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some great substitutions and variations to consider:

1. Ground Meat Options: While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. You can also mix ground beef with pork for a richer taste.
2. Pasta: Instead of egg noodles, feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Macaroni, penne, rotini, or even bow-tie pasta will work just as well. If you're looking to make the dish healthier, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives.
3. Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can mix things up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese. For a sharper flavor, try using sharp cheddar or adding some Parmesan to the mix.
4. Vegetables: Add some nutrition to the dish by incorporating vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Frozen peas, corn, or green beans also work wonderfully in this casserole.
5. Sauce: For a different taste, try swapping the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even a homemade béchamel sauce. You can also add a few tablespoons of marinara sauce or tomato paste for a slightly more tomato-forward flavor.
6. Spices: To change up the flavor profile, try using cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for a southwestern twist. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered all your ingredients, it's time to start cooking! Here's a simple step-by-step guide for making Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the egg noodles (or pasta of choice) and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they are softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk until smooth. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and stir to combine. If you're adding cream cheese, stir it into the mixture until it’s fully incorporated.
4. Combine Beef and Pasta: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef, and the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until well-coated.
5. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Let It Rest: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set and make it easier to serve.

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

1. Step 1: Cook the egg noodles until al dente, then drain.
2. Step 2: Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then drain excess fat.
3. Step 3: Prepare the creamy sauce by combining sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and diced tomatoes.
4. Step 4: Mix the cooked pasta, beef, and sauce in a large bowl until well combined.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, top with shredded cheese.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden, then serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta just until al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, so if you overcook it during boiling, it may become mushy.
2. Not Draining Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy casserole.
3. Undersalting the Casserole: Be sure to season the beef and sauce properly. The pasta and cheese need enough salt to bring out the flavors in the dish.
4. Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Give the casserole a few minutes to rest after baking. This will help it firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete dinner. If you want to add a little crunch, consider topping your casserole with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving. You can also serve it in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for a more personalized touch.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just extend the bake time by 10-15 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
• Cheesy Goodness: For an even cheesier casserole, stir some extra shredded cheese directly into the pasta mixture before layering the top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or macaroni.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, then freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole gluten-free.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that combines savory flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can have a delicious, crowd-pleasing casserole on the table in no time. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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