Growing up, family dinners were a cherished time in my household, a space where we could all gather, share stories from our day, and enjoy a hearty meal together. One dish that always made an appearance, especially on busy weeknights, was Hamburger Casserole. This dish, with its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, holds a special place in my heart. I remember my mother pulling this golden, bubbly casserole out of the oven, the kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of melted cheese and savory beef. It was a surefire way to bring everyone to the table, even on the busiest of evenings.
Hamburger Casserole is not just a nostalgic comfort food; it’s also incredibly versatile. I often find myself experimenting with the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For instance, swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken is a great way to lighten it up a bit. Vegetarians can substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, which absorbs the flavors beautifully and provides a satisfying texture. Adding different vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can elevate the dish with extra nutrients and vibrant colors.
One of my favorite tweaks is to use different types of cheese. While the classic cheddar gives it a rich and creamy texture, using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of sharp Parmesan on top can add a delightful depth of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture can give the casserole a pleasant kick.
What makes Hamburger Casserole truly special is its ability to bring people together, evoking a sense of home and warmth. It’s a dish that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with loved ones. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own unique twist, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen as well.
Making Hamburger Casserole
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients
- 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 small diced onion
- 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
- 6 ounces egg noodles
Directions
- Set your oven to 375°F to preheat.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions and set them aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir well.
- Mix in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and frozen vegetables. Stir to combine.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat mixture, cooked noodles, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated and the cheese is melted.
FAQs:
Can I use other types of cheese for this hamburger casserole?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with other types such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. This will give the casserole a different flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender.
What can I serve with hamburger casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread is also a popular accompaniment.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you’re looking to reduce the fat content. The cooking instructions remain the same.
How do I store leftovers of the hamburger casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded and divided
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 6 oz package egg noodles
- 1 tsp garlic
- Salt and pepper
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 cup frozen vegetables peas carrots and corn
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Cook the egg noodles following the package directions, then set them aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned. Drain the grease.
- Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Mix everything together.
- Let the meat mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large bowl, combine the meat mixture, cooked noodles, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
- Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.
