Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this Hamburger Supreme Casserole will hit the spot. Packed with rich, savory flavors, cheesy goodness, and pasta, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Follow along to learn how to make this delicious casserole, plus some variations, tips, and presentation ideas to make it your own. Read on for the full recipe and don't miss the FAQs at the end for helpful answers to common casserole questions.

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What is a “Hamburger Supreme Casserole”?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered, baked dish made with ground beef, pasta, tomato-based sauce, and plenty of cheese. It's a fusion of classic casserole elements and the flavors of a hamburger, creating an irresistible meal. This recipe combines the comfort of a traditional baked pasta with the hearty, savory taste of ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and spices. It’s easy to make, customizable, and great for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef: The core protein of this recipe. Ground beef offers that classic hamburger taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Brings a slight sweetness and a bit of texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor with a touch of aromatic richness.
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup: Creates a thick, flavorful base for the sauce.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Helps make the sauce rich and tangy.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and a burst of freshness to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To taste, enhancing the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and balance to the dish.
• 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini works well): Acts as the filling base of the casserole, giving it substance.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, tangy flavor and that signature cheesy stretch.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a gooey, melty texture that complements the cheddar.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs: Adds a crispy topping that contrasts with the soft, cheesy casserole.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Helps bind the breadcrumbs to create a crunchy crust.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Ground beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option.
• Onion and bell pepper: Feel free to use any color of bell pepper or add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra vegetables.
• Tomato sauce: If you prefer a different flavor, marinara or homemade tomato sauce works just as well.
• Cheese: You can swap the cheddar and mozzarella for Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a little heat.
• Breadcrumbs: If you're gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, or leave them out altogether for a softer topping.
• Pasta: Try using whole-wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta depending on dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious Hamburger Supreme Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease.
4. Add the veggies: To the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Prepare the sauce: Stir in the condensed tomato soup, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Combine with pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and beef mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Layer the casserole: Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
8. Add the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this over the top of the casserole.
9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
10. Rest before serving: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to slice.

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

1. Gather all your ingredients: Prepare everything ahead of time so you can easily move through each step.
2. Cook the pasta first: This step allows you to focus on the sauce while the pasta cools.
3. Brown the beef and vegetables together: Doing this in one pan saves time and creates a flavor base for your sauce.
4. Mix pasta with the sauce thoroughly: Ensuring the pasta is well-coated with sauce ensures every bite is flavorful.
5. Layer the cheese: Spread the cheese evenly throughout the casserole for gooey, cheesy bites in every forkful.
6. Don’t forget the breadcrumbs: A good casserole is all about texture, and the crispy topping provides a perfect contrast to the creamy interior.
7. Let it rest: This step is crucial for the casserole to set and makes for cleaner, more cohesive slices when serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven and could become mushy if overdone.
2. Skipping the seasoning: Don't skimp on seasoning your ground beef and sauce. Proper seasoning is key to achieving rich, balanced flavors.
3. Not draining the beef: Make sure to drain excess grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
4. Uneven layering: Try to distribute the pasta mixture and cheese evenly so every bite has a little of everything.
5. Forgetting the breadcrumb topping: This provides a wonderful contrast in texture that shouldn’t be missed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Hamburger Supreme Casserole, the presentation can be just as important as the flavor. Consider these ideas to elevate the dish:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Add a side salad: Balance the rich, hearty flavors with a fresh, crisp side salad.
• Serve with garlic bread: A slice of buttery, crunchy garlic bread makes a perfect pairing with this casserole.

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

This dish is best served hot, straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots bring a fresh, healthy contrast.
• Coleslaw: The tanginess of coleslaw works well with the rich casserole.
• Pickles or jalapeños: For those who enjoy a little tang or heat, serve with pickles or pickled jalapeños on the side.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Serve in a decorative casserole dish and place it at the center of the table for a family-style meal.
• Cut the casserole into even squares before serving to give it a clean, professional look.
• Sprinkle some extra cheese and breadcrumbs on top after baking for a touch of golden color.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Simply refrigerate after assembling (but before baking), and then bake when ready to serve.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Just bake it, let it cool completely, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
• Double the recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe easily doubles. Use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! While elbow macaroni and rotini work well, penne, rigatoni, or even shells would also be great options.

2. Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Definitely. You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover Hamburger Supreme Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

4. Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that your tomato products are gluten-free as well.

5. How can I make this casserole spicier? Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use pepper jack cheese to give the casserole a spicy kick.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the best of cheesy, meaty, and pasta-filled goodness. Its versatility makes it a great addition to your weekly dinner rotation, whether you’re serving a family or entertaining guests. Follow the recipe, make it your own with the variations, and enjoy this ultimate comfort food!

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