Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

Are you in the mood for a rich, hearty casserole that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare? Look no further than the Hamburger Supreme Casserole! This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender ground beef, pasta, gooey cheese, and savory seasonings into one irresistible meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a large group, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Stick around to learn how to create this comforting and satisfying dish, along with tips, variations, and serving ideas that will make your Hamburger Supreme Casserole a family favorite!

this Recipe

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a savory baked dish made with layers of ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a creamy sauce, typically with added vegetables or seasonings for extra flavor. It’s a budget-friendly, one-pan meal that combines all the ingredients into a single dish, making it perfect for busy families. This dish is loved for its rich flavors, cheesy goodness, and its ability to feed a crowd without much effort. Whether you're looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, Hamburger Supreme Casserole is sure to satisfy.

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Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Before you start, gather the following ingredients for your Hamburger Supreme Casserole. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you probably already have many of them on hand!

Basic Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use a fattier cut if you don’t mind draining the excess fat.
2. Pasta (2 cups uncooked) – Elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini are great options for this recipe.
3. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
4. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – For a subtle, aromatic kick.
5. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor.
6. Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened) – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
7. Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Acts as the base of the sauce, bringing moisture and flavor to the dish.
8. Sour Cream (½ cup) – Creates a luscious, creamy texture and adds richness.
9. Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the overall flavor.
10. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings for the dish.
11. Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – For sautéing the onions and garlic.

Optional Ingredients:

1. Green Bell Pepper (1, diced) – Adds color and crunch.
2. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – For an earthy flavor that complements the beef.
3. Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – For extra cheesiness and a melty topping.
4. Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon) – Adds a slight heat if you like a bit of spice.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how versatile it is! Here are a few substitutions and variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Substitutions:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the casserole.
2. Gluten-Free Pasta: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Dairy-Free Cheese: Opt for plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese to create a dairy-free version of the casserole.
4. Tomato Paste and Water: If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can mix 6 oz of tomato paste with 1 cup of water as a substitute.

Variations:

1. Mexican-Style Supreme Casserole: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and add a can of diced green chilies for a zesty, Tex-Mex version. Top with salsa and guacamole!
2. Vegetable-Packed Casserole: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, or carrots to increase the nutritional value and make the casserole more wholesome.
3. Bacon Cheeseburger Twist: Mix in crispy bacon bits and top with extra cheddar cheese for a “bacon cheeseburger” take on the dish.
4. Pizza-Inspired Casserole: Use marinara sauce, add pepperoni slices, and swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella to make it pizza-flavored!

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make the perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole every time. It’s simple enough for beginners and satisfying for experienced cooks!

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.

2. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Brown the Ground Beef:

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir in the tomato sauce and mix until the ingredients are fully combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the cooked pasta evenly across the bottom. Next, spoon the ground beef mixture over the pasta, followed by the creamy tomato sauce mixture.

6. Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If using mozzarella, add it now for an extra gooey finish.

7. Bake the Casserole:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden-brown crust, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

8. Let It Rest:

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice.

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

1. Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef with onions, garlic, and seasoning until browned.
3. Make the Sauce: Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and tomato sauce for a creamy, tangy sauce.
4. Layer and Bake: Combine pasta, beef, and sauce in layers, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long before baking can result in mushy pasta. Be sure to cook it only until al dente, as it will cook further in the oven.
• Not Draining the Beef: Excess fat from the ground beef can make the casserole greasy. Always drain the fat after browning the beef.
• Skipping the Cream Cheese: The cream cheese is what gives this casserole its creamy texture. Don’t skip it unless you’re substituting with another creamy ingredient.
• Overbaking the Casserole: Baking too long can dry out the casserole. Keep an eye on the cheese—once it’s melted and bubbly, the casserole is ready to come out of the oven.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

To take your Hamburger Supreme Casserole to the next level, consider these serving and presentation tips:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish. Use a spatula to portion out slices.
2. With Sides: Pair with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, basil, or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Cheesy Topper: Add an extra layer of cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking to create a golden, bubbly topping.

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Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Freezing: Hamburger Supreme Casserole freezes well. To freeze, prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Portion Control: If cooking for a smaller crowd, you can easily halve the recipe and bake it in a smaller dish.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese can be used in place of cheddar.

2. Can I add vegetables to the casserole

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Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini are great additions.

3. How long does Hamburger Supreme Casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the casserole will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

4. Can I freeze leftover casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake until warmed through.

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Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, versatile, and packed with cheesy, beefy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or preparing ahead for busy days, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. With plenty of room for substitutions and variations, you can make this recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Try this delicious Hamburger Supreme Casserole today, and enjoy a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a household staple!

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