Hamburger Delicious
A hearty casserole combining tender seashell pasta, savory hamburger, and creamy soups, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich, flavorful, and satisfying dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the large seashells.
- Brown the hamburger with chopped celery and finely diced onions.
- Combine the cooked mixture with tomato, cream of chicken, and cream of mushroom soups.
- Pour the mixture into a large greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Pour juice and olives into the casserole and stir lightly.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. If you're out of tomato soup, crushed tomatoes can be a great substitute. To save time, you can use pre-cooked hamburger meat or even ground turkey for a healthier option. Adjust the seasoning with Italian herbs for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hamburger Delicious casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Homemade Dressing for a refreshing touch. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily be doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Delicious contains roughly 270 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 539mg per serving (23% 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 different types of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While large seashells are a great choice, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up well in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and assemble it the night before. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the baking time slightly to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the hamburger mixture?
Consider adding spices like garlic powder, paprika, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the hamburger while browning. You can also mix in some shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist that complements the flavors beautifully.
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).