Hamburger Meat Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and creamy mushroom sauce, topped with bread crumbs for a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the hamburger meat and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to the meat and cook until softened.
- Stir in sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and pimento.
- Cook the noodles according to package directions and drain.
- Combine the meat mixture with the cooked noodles.
- Pour the mixture into a large baking dish.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the sour cream or add a layer of cheese before baking. For a vegetarian twist, replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms and lentils, similar to a Cheezy Vegetable Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also delicious served with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Consider a side of Chou-Rouge for a tangy contrast, or serve with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be mindful to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Meat Casserole contains roughly 1011 calories, with 28g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1213mg per serving (53% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce and add sautéed mushrooms to mimic the flavor of cream of mushroom soup. Alternatively, cream of chicken or a vegetable soup can be used as a substitute.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
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).