Hamburger Casserole(Quick And Easy; Boys Love It!)
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining macaroni, ground beef, vegetables, and tomato flavor, perfect for quick family dinners and satisfying meat-lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix green pepper, onion, celery (or celery salt), tomato paste, and drained corn with cooked and drained hamburger. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Stir the vegetable and meat mixture with the prepared macaroni and cheese.
- Optional: Cover the casserole with cheese slices.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the macaroni and cheese. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can be used. Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to enhance the dish. You can also use different types of cheese for a flavor twist, such as cheddar or pepper jack. This dish is a great way to use up leftovers, similar to The Perfect Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Wonderful Baked Beans for a hearty family dinner. For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking. Enjoy with a dollop of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be sure to check that it is heated evenly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Casserole(Quick And Easy; Boys Love It!) contains roughly 539 calories, with 23g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1110mg per serving (48% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the hamburger?
You can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Additionally, using leftover pulled pork from your favorite Pork recipes can add a unique flavor twist to this casserole.
Can I freeze the hamburger casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) 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).