Looking for a simple, hearty dish that will please everyone at the dinner table? This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it's a comforting meal that's both easy to prepare and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this casserole is a surefire hit. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious, crowd-pleasing dish at home!
What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It's a versatile, one-dish meal that's perfect for feeding a family or making ahead for meal prep. The “supreme” part of the recipe comes from the mix of flavors and textures that make this dish more than just an ordinary casserole. Think of it as a more exciting version of a hamburger helper, but made from scratch with real, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you'll need to make this dish:
- Ground beef (1 lb): Lean or regular ground beef works well. Opt for lean if you want a slightly healthier option.
- Pasta (2 cups): Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini are great choices that hold the sauce well.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a mild sweetness and texture to the casserole.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth and a savory flavor.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 oz): The base of the sauce that ties everything together.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Adds creaminess and enhances the savory profile.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Balances the richness of the sauce and adds a tangy note.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully over the top for that irresistible cheesy layer.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the dish.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for added flavor.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables.
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins
For those looking to add extra flavor or nutrition to their Hamburger Supreme Casserole, consider these optional ingredients:
- Bell peppers (1 cup, diced): Adds a nice crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Mushrooms (½ cup, sliced): Deepens the umami flavor of the dish.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, drained): Adds more tomato goodness to the casserole and boosts moisture.
- Green beans or peas (½ cup): Adds a vegetable component, making the dish more nutritious.
- Crumbled bacon (¼ cup): A smoky, crispy topping that adds a burst of flavor.
Substitutions and Variations
The great thing about casseroles is how flexible they are. You can easily adapt the Hamburger Supreme Casserole to fit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Gluten-free pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this casserole.
- Low-fat cheese and sour cream: If you're watching your calorie intake, opt for reduced-fat cheese and sour cream.
- Spicy twist: Add a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat.
- Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground "meat" or crumbled tofu in place of the ground beef, and make sure the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian-friendly.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it's browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Prepare the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
How to Cook Hamburger Supreme Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
This is a breakdown of the critical steps that make your casserole perfect:
- Cook pasta al dente: Don’t overcook the pasta as it will cook further in the oven.
- Brown your beef: Properly browning the meat develops flavor and ensures it’s fully cooked.
- Blend flavors in the sauce: The combination of tomato sauce, mushroom soup, and sour cream creates a balanced, creamy sauce that’s key to the dish’s signature taste.
- Evenly distribute the cheese: For the ultimate cheesy goodness, make sure you evenly layer the cheese between and on top of the pasta.
- Watch for bubbling cheese: Once you see the cheese on top starting to bubble and turn golden, it’s time to remove the casserole from the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: The pasta should be slightly undercooked before baking to avoid it becoming mushy.
- Not draining excess grease: Be sure to drain excess fat from the cooked beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Skipping seasoning: Underseasoning the casserole can result in a bland dish. Taste the sauce before layering and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Burning the cheese topping: Watch your casserole closely during the last few minutes of baking to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautiful presentation can make this simple casserole feel extra special. Here are some ideas to serve your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:
- Family-style serving: Serve the casserole straight from the dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Portion plates: Slice the casserole into squares and serve on individual plates for a more polished look.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions can add a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with sides: Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.
How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole
For a cozy, casual meal, serve this casserole piping hot with your favorite side dishes. Consider pairing it with:
- Green salad with a tangy vinaigrette: The acidity of the salad will balance the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables: Add some veggies like broccoli or carrots to your meal for a healthy balance.
Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole
To elevate the presentation of this dish, try some of these ideas:
- Use a colorful baking dish: A vibrant ceramic or glass baking dish can add visual appeal to the meal.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon on top: For extra flavor and texture, top the casserole with crumbled, crispy bacon just before serving.
- Serve in individual ramekins: For a more upscale presentation, portion the casserole into individual oven-safe ramekins before baking.
Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While cheddar is the go-to cheese, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, the casserole freezes well. Assemble it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat the casserole in the microwave, but for best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
The Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Follow the steps in this guide to create a mouthwatering casserole that's sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
PrintEasy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe
This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family. Featuring ground beef, pasta, cheddar cheese, and rich seasonings, this hearty casserole is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Ideal for busy nights when you want a satisfying, comforting meal, it's a great way to enjoy a classic hamburger in casserole form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onions over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and sour cream.
- Pour into a greased casserole dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. ⅙ of casserole)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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