Hamburger And Macaroni Casserole
Hamburger and Macaroni Casserole is a comforting dish that combines savory ground beef and tender macaroni in a rich tomato sauce. Topped with cheese, it's a hearty meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering classic flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and onion.
- Cook macaroni in 2 quarts salted water, then drain.
- Add 2 cans tomato soup to the hamburger and macaroni.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
- Can be covered with cheese, then heated until cheese melts.
- Can add chopped celery or peppers to hamburger as well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Worcestershire sauce when browning the hamburger. If you prefer whole grain, substitute regular macaroni with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also experiment by adding chopped celery or peppers to the mix for extra crunch. This dish is versatile and can mimic flavors found in other American recipes like Spaghetti Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner and pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside Picnic Potato Salad. If you have leftovers, they make for a fantastic lunch the next day. You can also top with cheese before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 632 calories, with 21g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1263mg per serving (55% 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 casserole?
Yes, you can easily substitute the hamburger with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano or basil when mixing in the tomato soup. You can also mix in some grated cheese before baking or sprinkle it on top for a cheesy crust. Adding spices like red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
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).