Hamburger Sauce Casserole
A comforting casserole combining savory hamburger, tangy ketchup, and cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals with familiar flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add ketchup, dry onion mix, chopped onion, and enough water to make the consistency of spaghetti sauce.
- Simmer the sauce for 30 minutes.
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Combine the cooked hamburger and ketchup sauce with cooked macaroni.
- Place all ingredients in a greased casserole dish and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the ketchup mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked macaroni. This casserole can be customized with spices or veggies you have on hand, making it versatile for any palate.
Serving Suggestions
This Hamburger Sauce Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a simple green salad for a refreshing side. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a special touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs or crushed red pepper over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Sauce Casserole contains roughly 570 calories, with 22g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1983mg per serving (86% 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 stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This is a great option for meal prepping or serving guests without last-minute stress.
What kind of cheese works best on top?
Cheddar is a classic choice that melts beautifully and adds a nice sharpness to the dish. However, you can also use mozzarella for a milder flavor, or a blend of cheeses for added depth. Experiment with your favorites or even try a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can be added to the hamburger while browning for extra nutrition and flavor. This not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish more colorful and visually appealing. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
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).