Barbara'S Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and savory tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground round steak and drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture.
- Stir in chopped onions and sliced celery if using.
- Mix peeled and sliced potatoes into the meat sauce.
- Bake the casserole, tightly covered, at 350°F for 2 hours or cook in a crock-pot on high for 5 hours or on low for 8 to 9 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, frozen pre-sliced potatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh potatoes. You can also swap out ground round steak for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. This dish is similar to Ragu Hot Dish, making it a comforting choice for family meals.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a creamy coleslaw. It’s a great dish to enjoy on a cozy evening, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 947 calories, with 23g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2350mg per serving (102% 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 prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don't have tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of sugar to balance the acidity. This will still yield a delicious sauce for your casserole.
Can I freeze the hamburger casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).