Craving a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make dish for your next family dinner? This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe is a delicious one-pan meal that combines savory beef, rich cheese, and creamy sauce with pasta for the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters, and you’ll want to make this again and again! Follow this recipe step-by-step, and you'll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Read on to discover how you can make this irresistible dish from scratch!

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a hearty, filling baked dish that layers cooked ground beef with pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection. This casserole is easy to make, budget-friendly, and has the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a versatile meal that can be adapted with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re feeding a large family or need leftovers for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Hamburger Supreme Casserole at home. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and many are likely already in your kitchen!

1 pound ground beef – Lean or regular ground beef works here, depending on your preference for fat content.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and a little sweetness to the casserole.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Gives the dish a savory depth of flavor.
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – This creates the creamy base for the casserole.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained – Adds a little tanginess and moisture to the dish.
½ cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole sauce.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works great for a bold cheese flavor.
8 oz elbow macaroni or egg noodles – Your choice of pasta, cooked according to package directions.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the beef and onions.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor with a blend of herbs.
Salt and pepper to taste – Season the dish according to your preference.
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions – Adds a touch of freshness and color for serving.

Ingredients List for Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how adaptable it can be! Here are a few common substitutions and variations you can make based on dietary needs, ingredient availability, or personal taste preferences:

Ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a leaner version of the casserole.
Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to cut down on fat while still maintaining creaminess.
Cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup can replace the cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.
Cheddar cheese blend or mozzarella cheese for a milder or creamier cheese flavor.
Add vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce into the casserole mix.

Feel free to experiment with these swaps or create your own spin on this versatile dish!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process! Here’s how to make Hamburger Supreme Casserole step-by-step:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray.
Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, move on to the next step.
Sauté the ground beef: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Mix in the seasoning and sauces: Stir in the diced tomatoes (drained), the can of cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly until it forms a creamy, rich mixture. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Layer the casserole: Transfer half of the pasta-beef mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Add the rest of the pasta mixture, followed by the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges should be slightly golden for that perfect baked look.
Let it rest: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

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

Cooking a casserole like this is straightforward, but timing and layering are key to ensuring all the flavors meld together perfectly. Here’s a quick guide to mastering the Hamburger Supreme Casserole cooking process:

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients – Before you start, make sure all your ingredients are measured and ready. Pre-cook your pasta and set aside any cheese or seasonings.
Step 2: Sauté and brown – Ensure the beef is browned well, as this adds more flavor to the casserole. Don’t forget to drain excess grease to avoid an oily dish.
Step 3: Mix and layer – Properly mix the beef and pasta so that each piece of pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Layering the cheese ensures that each bite is filled with melty goodness.
Step 4: Bake and rest – Baking at the right temperature is important to melt the cheese without burning it. Letting the casserole rest allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta: You don’t want mushy pasta in your casserole. Cook it just until al dente since it will cook a little more in the oven.
Not draining the grease: Failing to drain the excess grease from the ground beef can make your casserole greasy.
Under-seasoning: Taste your sauce before mixing it with the pasta to ensure it’s properly seasoned. Remember, you can always add more seasoning if needed!
Skipping the resting time: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the casserole rest for a few minutes will help it set and become easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a few side dishes or creative presentation ideas. Here are some tips:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Family-style: Serve straight from the baking dish and let everyone dig in! This is a great dish for casual family dinners.
Individual servings: For a more formal presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or chopped green onions.
With sides: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Layered look: When serving, ensure each portion has visible layers of pasta, beef, and cheese for an appetizing presentation.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds a pop of color that makes the dish look fresh and inviting.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

Prep ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing option: If you want to make it ahead for a future meal, this casserole freezes well. Just cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Double the recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you're cooking for a crowd. Just use a larger dish and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni or egg noodles are popular choices, penne, rotini, or shells work just as well in this casserole.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup you use is gluten-free as well.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added to boost the nutrition of this dish.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts better, but either works.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a simple, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or need something satisfying for a family gathering, this casserole is sure to deliver. With minimal prep time and a rich, comforting taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food!