Hamburger Supreme Casserole: A Family-Approved Comfort Dish
When it comes to hearty and comforting meals, few dishes evoke the warmth of home quite like the classic Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This rich, layered dish combines savory ingredients to create a satisfying meal perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. As a beloved staple in many households, casseroles hold a special place in the hearts of those who cherish the nostalgia of home-cooked meals. They represent more than just food; they offer a sense of comfort and community, a way to bring loved ones together around the table.
The Hamburger Supreme Casserole exemplifies the essence of comfort food, featuring familiar flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike. With its mix of ground beef, creamy soup, tender pasta, and melted cheese, it’s easy to see why this dish has earned a reputation as a family favorite. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy households. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a potluck or simply satisfy a hungry family, Hamburger Supreme Casserole promises to be a hit on any occasion.
What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a hearty dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food. This casserole typically consists of layers of cooked ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It is an epitome of American cuisine that brings families together at the dinner table.
Casseroles have a storied history in American cooking, emerging as an efficient way to prepare and serve meals using readily available ingredients. This style of cooking became particularly popular in the mid-20th century, as families sought quick and satisfying dinner solutions. The appeal of casseroles lies in their ability to be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready, making them an ideal choice for busy households.
At the core of the Hamburger Supreme Casserole are several key ingredients. Ground beef serves as the protein base, while diced onions and bell peppers add a touch of freshness and flavor. Canned tomatoes contribute moisture and acidity, and cream of mushroom soup binds the layers together with its smooth, creamy texture. The addition of elbow macaroni not only enhances the dish’s heartiness but also provides a comforting chewiness. Together, these ingredients create a satisfying meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the standout features of Hamburger Supreme Casserole is its versatility. This dish can easily be customized to fit individual tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer adding more vegetables or trying different types of cheeses, the possibilities are endless. Additionally, it has a quick preparation and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.
This casserole is also a fantastic choice for gatherings and potlucks. Its crowd-pleasing flavors and family-friendly profile make it a hit with both adults and children. Serving it alongside a simple salad or some crusty bread rounds out the meal and makes it an excellent option for sharing. With Hamburger Supreme Casserole, you can bring a touch of comfort food to any occasion.
Ingredients for Hamburger Supreme Casserole
To recreate the beloved Hamburger Supreme Casserole, you’ll need a simple yet flavorful array of ingredients that come together to create a hearty dish. Below is a list of the main components required for this recipe, along with some suggestions for alternatives.
Main Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (you can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier option).
- Onion: 1 small, diced (for an added touch of sweetness and flavor).
- Bell pepper: 1 small, diced (adds color and crunch; feel free to use any color).
- Canned tomatoes: 1 can, diced (provides moisture and acidity to balance the richness).
- Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (this acts as a creamy binding agent; consider using a homemade version for a fresher taste).
- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups, uncooked (opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred).
Seasonings
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp (for an aromatic flavor).
- Salt and pepper: to taste (essential for enhancing all other flavors).
Toppings
- Shredded cheese: 1 cup (cheddar or mozzarella is recommended for melty goodness).
- Optional: breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping (adds texture and visual appeal if desired).
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! Substituting vegetables or different seasonings can yield deliciously unique results.
Directions for Making Hamburger Supreme Casserole
Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This process is simple and efficient, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook and drain the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through. Set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Mix the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed onion and bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and the cream of mushroom soup. Stir well to blend all ingredients. Next, fold in the uncooked elbow macaroni and season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
4. Add Toppings
Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of the casserole. If you’re opting for a crunchy topping, feel free to add breadcrumbs at this stage.
5. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The edges may slightly crisp up, creating a delicious contrast to the creamy interior.
6. Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set. Serve hot, perhaps garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Casserole
For the best results when making your Hamburger Supreme Casserole, consider these useful tips:
- Avoid overcooking the pasta: Since you’re adding uncooked pasta to the mixture and baking it, ensure it’s not overcooked in the initial steps.
- Ensure even distribution of ingredients: Mix the ingredients thoroughly to avoid any sections being too cheesy or too plain.
- Allow the casserole to set: Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking will help it slice better and maintain its shape on the plate.
- Recommended side dishes: Casseroles pair well with light salads or crusty bread to create a complete meal.
Variations of Hamburger Supreme Casserole
This dish is highly adaptable! Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetable alternatives: Incorporate vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to add nutrition and flavor.
- Spicier versions: Add jalapeños or use spicy sausage to give your casserole a kick.
- Low-carb adaptations: For a healthier option, consider swapping out elbow macaroni for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Family-friendly variations: Add kid-friendly ingredients like corn for a touch of sweetness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To preserve the flavor and texture of your Hamburger Supreme Casserole, follow these storage tips:
- Properly storing leftovers: Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing tips: If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it. Place the cooled casserole in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to 2-3 months.
- Best practices for reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer to avoid canned soup, you can substitute it with homemade alternatives using a roux or a different creamy soup such as cream of chicken or a vegetable soup for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free pasta and ensure that the canned soup used is free of gluten-containing ingredients to maintain this dish’s gluten-free status.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What sides pair well with Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
Popular side dishes include mixed green salads, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables to complement the richness of the casserole.
Conclusion
The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a comforting, versatile dish that has earned its place in many households, offering a deliciously filling meal that brings families together. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and variations. We invite you to share your thoughts and personal twists on this classic recipe!
Call to Action
Have you tried making Hamburger Supreme Casserole or any variations of it? Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments below, and don’t forget to check out our other family meal recipes for more culinary inspiration!
Hamburger Supreme Casserole
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 spoon or spatula
- 1 aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Divide into two portions.
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- To the cooked beef mixture, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked macaroni and chopped bell pepper if using. Mix well until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture into the beef and macaroni mixture until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
