Hamburg Macaroni Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining savory browned hamburger, tender macaroni, creamy celery soup, and melted cheese, ideal for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix browned hamburger and cooked macaroni together.
- Add cream of celery soup to the mixture.
- Top with cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the hamburger with garlic powder or onion powder while browning. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or even a homemade béchamel for a richer taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey instead of hamburger. This dish can also benefit from the addition of vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hamburg Macaroni Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish makes for a great potluck option, alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburg Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 120 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 793mg per serving (34% 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 pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, feel free to substitute with any short pasta like penne or fusilli. Just ensure it's cooked al dente before mixing with the other ingredients to avoid mushiness during baking.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the hamburger or mix them into the casserole before baking for a colorful and healthy twist.
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).