Hamburger Sausage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned sausage, beef, pasta, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying all appetites with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and sausage in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Add diced onions, tomato sauce, basil, and cooked elbow macaroni to the meat mixture. Mix well.
- Place half of the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with three-quarters of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add the remaining meat mixture on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage or lean ground turkey in place of hamburger and sausage. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked macaroni or swap in a different cheese like cheddar for a twist. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning for more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing contrast, try pairing it with Herbed Potato Salad. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily be doubled for larger crowds. Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Sausage Casserole contains roughly 509 calories, with 18g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 807mg per serving (35% 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 a day in advance. Assemble it in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as instructed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste for a thicker consistency. Adding a splash of beef broth can enhance the flavor. For a different taste, consider using a marinara sauce or a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses have different melting properties, so the texture may vary slightly.
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).