Hamburger Junk
Hamburger Junk is a hearty, comforting casserole blending seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich tomato flavors. Topped with Parmesan and sharp cheese, it's perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying, cheesy, and savory experience with a classic American flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Season with garlic salt, oregano, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and water to the skillet. Let simmer.
- Layer half of the sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Add half of the cooked macaroni over the sauce.
- Repeat layers with remaining sauce and macaroni.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and grated sharp cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you don’t have macaroni, any small pasta will work, or you could substitute with rice. Fresh garlic can replace garlic salt for a more robust taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, especially if you like it spicier.
Serving Suggestions
This Hamburger Junk dish pairs beautifully with a side of Green Beans And New Potatoes for a balanced meal. A simple side salad can also complement the richness of the dish. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. Leftover portions can be frozen for later enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the microwave until hot, or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it from drying out while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Junk contains roughly 231 calories, with 11g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will provide a lighter version of this dish. Just be sure to add a bit more seasoning, as turkey can be milder in flavor than beef.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this Hamburger Junk vegetarian, substitute the hamburger with lentils or a meat alternative like tempeh or a plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the layers ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).