Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you're searching for a comforting, family-friendly meal that combines the savory goodness of a hamburger with the heartiness of a casserole, look no further than the Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This easy-to-make dish is packed with flavor, customizable ingredients, and a satisfying combination of textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table. Read on to discover everything you need to know about making this delicious casserole, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitutions, and serving ideas. Let’s dive into the details!

What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered dish featuring ground beef, pasta or potatoes, cheese, and vegetables, all baked together in a creamy sauce. Think of it as a hybrid between a classic cheeseburger and a hearty casserole, giving you the best of both worlds. The "Supreme" in the name hints at the addition of extra toppings or ingredients like onions, peppers, or even bacon, adding to the richness and flavor of the dish. Whether you're a fan of comfort food or looking for a quick meal to feed a crowd, this casserole is bound to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef – You can use lean ground beef, or for more flavor, go with an 80/20 blend.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic gives the dish an extra aromatic boost.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – This creates the creamy base for the casserole.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds a tangy richness to the sauce.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained – Provides a bit of acidity and sweetness.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melted cheese makes this casserole irresistible.
• 8 oz pasta (penne or elbow macaroni) – Cooked al dente, this will hold up well when baked.
• ½ cup milk – Helps thin out the sauce for a creamier consistency.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – For added warmth and a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To season the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a mild kick.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For a crunchy topping.
• 2 tablespoon butter (optional) – To mix with the breadcrumbs for a golden crust.

Additional Ingredient Options for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Feel free to get creative with your casserole by adding these ingredients to customize the flavor or texture:

• Bacon bits – For a smoky, savory addition.
• Green bell pepper or red bell pepper, diced – Adds a pop of color and crunch.
• Frozen peas or corn – These vegetables add sweetness and extra nutrition.
• Chopped mushrooms – If you're a fan of mushrooms, add some for an earthy flavor.
• Crushed potato chips – Swap out the breadcrumbs for potato chips on top for extra crunch.
• Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese – These cheeses melt beautifully and can be used as an alternative or in addition to cheddar.

Substitutions and Variations

While this casserole is delicious as-is, you can easily make a few substitutions to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – A leaner alternative to ground beef.
• Gluten-Free Pasta – If you're gluten intolerant, use a gluten-free pasta variety.
• Greek Yogurt – Replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute, such as lentils or crumbled tofu, for a meatless version.
• Low-Fat Dairy – Use low-fat cheese, milk, and sour cream to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get into the cooking process.

1. Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Brown the beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess grease from the pan.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onions have softened and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Combine the sauce ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, diced tomatoes, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the sauce and ingredients. Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Optional breadcrumb topping: If you want a crispy topping, melt the butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using breadcrumbs, they should be golden and crispy.
8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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

To recap, here's a simplified guide to making your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Boil pasta until al dente.
2. Brown ground beef, onions, and garlic.
3. Stir in the sauce ingredients: soup, sour cream, tomatoes, milk, and seasoning.
4. Combine the beef mixture with cooked pasta in a casserole dish.
5. Top with cheese and breadcrumbs (optional).
6. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes that could affect your Hamburger Supreme Casserole and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the pasta: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy.
• Not draining excess grease from the beef: This could make the casserole greasy. Always drain the beef after browning.
• Skipping the breadcrumb topping: If you like texture, don’t miss out on the crunchy topping!
• Not seasoning properly: Be sure to taste your sauce before assembling the casserole. If it tastes bland, adjust the seasoning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key, even with a comforting casserole like this. Here are a few ways to serve and present your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

• Individual Servings: Serve the casserole in small bowls or ramekins for a neat and elegant presentation.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, chives, or green onions adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Add a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad on the side to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Bread on the Side: Offer slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for guests to enjoy alongside the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

While this dish is already packed with hearty ingredients, you can elevate its presentation with these ideas:

• Top with extra cheese: For a beautiful cheesy crust, add an extra layer of cheese before baking.
• Use a clear casserole dish: This allows guests to see the delicious layers of beef, pasta, and cheese.
• Add colorful veggies: Incorporate bright vegetables like red bell peppers or green peas for added color.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This can be a huge time-saver on busy nights.
• Freeze leftovers: This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
• Custom toppings: If you love texture, play around with different topping options like fried onions, crushed crackers, or even crumbled bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can use any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells. Just be sure to cook it al dente.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat alternatives or replacing the beef with lentils or mushrooms.

Q: How long does Hamburger Supreme Casserole last in the fridge?
A: It can last for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach to boost the nutritional value.

Conclusion

This Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a must-try for any fan of hearty, comforting meals. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or a group of friends. With layers of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, all brought together by a creamy sauce, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some of the suggested variations, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your cooking and serving experience, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings and sides!

Print