Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner that’s sure to satisfy the whole family? This Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the perfect comfort food recipe that combines flavorful ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned pasta. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal. Dive into this recipe, follow the steps, and discover a new favorite in your meal rotation! Keep reading for tips, substitutions, and variations that will make this dish your own!

this Recipe

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered, baked dish made with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that appeals to all ages. This classic casserole is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or whenever you need a no-fuss, family-friendly meal. With simple ingredients that you likely have on hand, it’s a recipe you can turn to time and again.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, gather all your ingredients. These items are readily available in most kitchens or local grocery stores:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef – The foundation of the casserole, adding savory flavor and protein.
• 1 medium onion, diced – For added flavor and texture.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Any color will work, but red or green adds a nice contrast.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for boosting the overall flavor.
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup – Provides a rich, creamy tomato base.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Enhances the casserole’s saucy texture.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds chunks of tomato for extra flavor and juiciness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano and basil for that classic Italian flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a hint of spice.
• 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini works well) – Choose your favorite pasta, but elbow macaroni or rotini holds the sauce well.

Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The sharpness of cheddar balances out the richness of the beef and tomato sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds a creamy, melty topping.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – For a crispy, golden finish on top.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – Used to mix with breadcrumbs to create that crunchy topping.

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly adaptable, and you can easily tweak it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
• Pasta Alternatives: Use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even egg noodles for a different texture.
• Cheese Substitutions: Try using Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Gouda cheese for a flavor twist.
• Spicy Variation: Add a diced jalapeño or ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in some diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for additional nutrients and texture.
• Mexican-Inspired Version: Substitute the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, use salsa instead of tomato sauce, and swap the cheddar for a blend of Mexican cheeses.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to make your Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente (around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato soup, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pasta and meat mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
8. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
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. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

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

This detailed guide simplifies the process and ensures you have a perfect casserole every time.

1. Preparation is Key: Gather all ingredients and preheat your oven. Having everything measured out and ready makes cooking more efficient.
2. Cook and Drain the Pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked just to al dente—overcooked pasta can become mushy when baked.
3. Layering for Best Results: Layering the casserole, starting with the pasta mixture, then cheese, then the breadcrumb topping, ensures each bite has the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
4. Crispy Topping: The breadcrumb and butter mixture is key to that golden, crispy crust. If you like extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs slightly before adding them to the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Hamburger Supreme Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking your pasta to al dente ensures it doesn’t become too soft after baking.
2. Forgetting to Drain the Beef: Excess grease can make the casserole too oily. Be sure to drain the fat after browning the meat.
3. Skimping on Seasoning: Make sure to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Undersalted casserole can taste bland.
4. Not Allowing Rest Time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving allows it to set and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters when serving this comforting dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your casserole's presentation:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Garnish: Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add color and a fresh flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a homey, casual meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• Layered Look: For a beautiful presentation, bake the casserole in a clear glass dish so the layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese are visible.
• Individual Portions: Use small ramekins to bake and serve individual casseroles for a more elegant touch.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes! Elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or even shell pasta works well. Just make sure it's cooked to al dente.

Q: Can I make this casserole spicy?
A: Absolutely! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for extra heat.

Q: How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Simply use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a versatile, family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its flavorful beef, tender pasta, and cheesy topping, this casserole delivers comfort in every bite. The recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences, and you can make it ahead or freeze it for later. Whether you're making it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this casserole is bound to impress!

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