Baked Hamburger And Macaroni
A hearty baked dish combining seasoned hamburger, creamy mushroom soup, and macaroni, topped with crushed crackers for a comforting, family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet; pour off the excess fat.
- Cook the macaroni in boiling, salted water for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the macaroni and mix in the cheese from the macaroni dinner package.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and cooked hamburger to the macaroni mixture; stir well.
- Sprinkle crushed soda crackers on top of the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade béchamel sauce for a different flavor. If you want a little kick, adding some diced jalapeños or spicy cheese can elevate the dish. This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover cooked vegetables, too.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Hamburger and Macaroni pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or biscuits on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese on top before serving adds a nice touch. It’s a comforting dish that fits perfectly into casual family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Hamburger And Macaroni contains roughly 522 calories, with 20g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 812mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lean hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the type of meat you choose to ensure it is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
What can I do if I don't have soda crackers?
If you don’t have soda crackers, you can use breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even cornflakes as a topping. Each option will add a different texture and flavor to the dish, so choose one that you enjoy or have on hand.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).