Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

If you're searching for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner that's easy to make and bursting with flavor, Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the recipe for you! This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and pasta in a delicious baked casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s a comforting meal that’s packed with layers of flavor, and the best part? It can be customized to your liking! Keep reading to discover how to make this classic casserole with step-by-step instructions, variations, and helpful tips.

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What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered, baked dish that combines ground beef with pasta, vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. The "supreme" aspect of this casserole refers to its indulgent and comforting nature—it’s packed with flavor, filling ingredients, and, of course, lots of cheese. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for feeding a family, potluck gatherings, or even meal prep, as it reheats wonderfully.

Ingredients List for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this mouthwatering casserole:

For the Casserole:

• Ground beef: 1 pound (450g) of ground beef. Use 80/20 for a balance of flavor and tenderness.
• Pasta: 2 cups (dry) of rotini, elbow macaroni, or penne pasta. You can use any short pasta that holds sauce well.
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced. Yellow or white onions work best.
• Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced. Adds depth and aroma to the dish.
• Green bell pepper: 1 large green bell pepper, diced. You can substitute with red or yellow bell pepper for a milder flavor.
• Tomato sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425g) of tomato sauce. This forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich, savory element.
• Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) of diced tomatoes, undrained. Adds texture and extra flavor.
• Sour cream: ½ cup (120g) of sour cream. Adds creaminess and tang to the sauce.
• Cream cheese: 4 oz (115g) of softened cream cheese. This gives the casserole its signature creamy texture.
• Cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200g) of shredded cheddar cheese. You can mix in mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon for added flavor.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon for a touch of warmth and color.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Optional Ingredients:

• Mushrooms: 1 cup (115g) of sliced mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
• Frozen peas or corn: 1 cup for added texture and sweetness.
• Red pepper flakes: A pinch for those who like a bit of heat.

Substitutions and Variations

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a versatile dish, which means there are many ways to customize it according to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Ground Meat Options: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. For a leaner option, use 93% lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you're gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. You can also substitute the pasta with rice, quinoa, or even a low-carb option like cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a hearty legume like lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby Jack, depending on your preference.
• Creamy Additions: For an extra creamy casserole, add a bit of heavy cream or whole milk to the sauce. You can also add more sour cream or even a can of condensed cream of mushroom or chicken soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started on making this flavorful casserole! Follow these simple steps to create a comforting Hamburger Supreme Casserole that the whole family will love.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

• While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onions and green bell pepper over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• If you're adding mushrooms or other vegetables (like peas or corn), sauté them at this stage as well.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

• Stir the tomato sauce and undrained diced tomatoes into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the Italian seasoning and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Layer

• In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. This will add a rich, creamy layer to the casserole, complementing the tomato sauce and beef.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large baking dish (9x13-inch), layer the casserole ingredients as follows:

1. Add the cooked pasta as the first layer.
2. Spread half of the ground beef evenly over the pasta.
3. Spoon the tomato and vegetable sauce over the beef.
4. Spread the cream cheese and sour cream mixture over the top.
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining ground beef and sauce.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (and any other cheeses you’re using) over the top to create a cheesy, golden crust.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown on top.
• Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

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

1. Cook pasta and set aside.
2. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables.
3. Make the tomato sauce by adding tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasoning.
4. Prepare the creamy layer by mixing cream cheese and sour cream.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering pasta, beef, sauce, and cream mixture.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly and golden-brown.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember to cook the pasta only until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Not Draining the Beef: After browning the ground beef, drain off any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Skipping the Creamy Layer: The cream cheese and sour cream layer is what gives this casserole its signature "supreme" texture and flavor. Don’t skip it!
• Forgetting to Season: Be sure to season each layer—ground beef, vegetables, and sauce. This will ensure the final dish is flavorful throughout.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Hamburger Supreme Casserole is baked to golden perfection, it's time to serve! Here are some tips to make your dish look as amazing as it tastes:

• Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or rolls also make a great accompaniment.
• Serve Hot: Make sure to serve the casserole hot from the oven, as the melted cheese and creamy layers are at their best when warm and gooey.

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

This casserole is a hearty meal on its own, but you can pair it with various sides to make a complete dinner:

• With a Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts make a great side to balance the richness.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

To make your casserole look as good as it tastes, try these presentation ideas:

• Individual Servings: Scoop the casserole onto plates and serve with a sprinkling of fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, placed in the center of the table for everyone to help themselves.
• **Use a Cast-I

ron Skillet**: If you have a large cast-iron skillet, assemble and bake the casserole directly in it for a rustic, homestyle presentation.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Prep in Advance: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
• Cheese Melting Tip: For a beautifully browned and bubbly top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Freeze It: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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 before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Supreme Casserole?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if the casserole is cold.

Q: What can I use instead of sour cream?
A: You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or use cream cheese alone for a creamier texture.

Conclusion

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, offering a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With customizable ingredients and a foolproof method, this casserole is bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Try it out today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish!

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