Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the dinner table? Look no further than this delicious Hamburger Supreme Casserole! With layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Stick around to get the full recipe, along with some pro tips and variations that will elevate your cooking game. Let's dive into this cheesy, beefy goodness!

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What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

A Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a baked dish made primarily with ground beef (hence, "hamburger"), pasta or potatoes, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This casserole combines the richness of savory beef, the comfort of soft pasta, and the delight of a cheesy, golden-brown topping. It’s called “supreme” because it kicks a regular hamburger casserole up a notch with extra layers of flavor, making it the perfect meal for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a make-ahead freezer dish.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty and delicious dish:

1. Ground Beef – 1 ½ pounds of lean ground beef (80/20 works well for flavor).
2. Pasta – 8 oz. of rotini or elbow pasta.
3. Onion – 1 medium onion, finely chopped.
4. Garlic – 2 cloves, minced.
5. Tomato Sauce – 15 oz. can of tomato sauce.
6. Diced Tomatoes – 14.5 oz. can, undrained.
7. Cream Cheese – 4 oz., softened.
8. Sour Cream – 1 cup.
9. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, divided.
10. Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
11. Salt & Pepper – To taste.
12. Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon.
13. Paprika – 1 teaspoon.
14. Beef Broth – ½ cup (optional, but adds flavor and moisture).
15. Butter – 1 tablespoon, for greasing the casserole dish.
16. Green Onions – ¼ cup, thinly sliced (for garnish).

Ingredient List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

To enhance the flavors and add a unique twist to your casserole, here are a few more ingredients you might consider:

1. Bell Peppers – Adding one chopped bell pepper to the ground beef mixture can provide some sweetness and crunch.
2. Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms (about 1 cup) can offer an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef.
3. Bacon – Crumbled, crispy bacon adds extra indulgence.
4. Worcestershire Sauce – Just 1 tablespoon can deepen the flavor of the beef mixture.
5. Hot Sauce – A dash of hot sauce for some heat, if you like it spicy.
6. Green Beans – Some versions include 1 cup of canned or cooked green beans for added veggies.

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Substitutions and Variations

Cooking can be flexible! Here are a few ways to adapt this Hamburger Supreme Casserole to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

• Pasta: Instead of rotini or elbow macaroni, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even egg noodles. For a low-carb version, swap the pasta for cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
• Cheese: While cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to use Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
• Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option. You can even use a meatless ground beef substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure the tomato sauce is gluten-free for a gluten-free alternative.
• Sauce: If you're not a fan of tomato sauce, swap it with a creamy alfredo sauce or even a marinara sauce for a different flavor.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through the process of making this delicious Hamburger Supreme Casserole.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
5. Add the tomatoes and sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Prepare the creamy layer: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
7. Assemble the casserole: Layer half of the cooked pasta at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the beef mixture over the pasta, then spread half of the cream cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Repeat with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cream cheese mixture. Finish with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
9. Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Garnish: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.

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

To simplify things, here’s a streamlined version of the cooking process:

1. Preheat oven and grease casserole dish.
2. Cook pasta and drain.
3. Sauté onions and garlic, then brown ground beef.
4. Add tomato sauce and diced tomatoes; simmer.
5. Mix cream cheese and sour cream for the creamy layer.
6. Layer pasta, beef, and cheese in the dish.
7. Bake until bubbly and golden.

By following these steps, you’ll have a perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole that is flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining the Beef: If you don’t drain excess fat after browning the beef, your casserole might turn out greasy.
2. Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Skipping the Seasoning: Make sure to season the beef mixture well, as under-seasoned beef can make the dish bland.
4. Overbaking the Casserole: Keep an eye on the casserole to avoid overbaking. You want the cheese to be golden and bubbly, but not burnt.
5. Forgetting to Let It Cool: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set. This makes it easier to slice and serve.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this comforting dish. Here are some tips to make your Hamburger Supreme Casserole even more appealing:

• Serve with Fresh Herbs: Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
• Add Crunch: Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before baking for added texture.
• Pair with a Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.

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How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are a few ways you can serve it to round out the meal:

1. With a Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
2. Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread or dinner rolls on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots make great vegetable sides.

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Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Presentation is key when you want to impress. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve in individual ramekins for a personal touch.
• Garnish with colorful veggies like diced bell peppers or green onions.
• Use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation.

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Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it perfect for meal prep.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 20 minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, the casserole will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.

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Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with savory ground beef, creamy layers, and a cheesy topping, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, it’s highly customizable to suit your tastes! Give this recipe a try, and it just might become a new household favorite. Enjoy!

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