Lazy Cook'S Escalloped Hamburg
A comforting, easy-to-make casserole combining seasoned ground beef, hearty tomatoes, and pasta, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual family meals.
Ingredients
- 1/2 to 1 lb. hamburger
- 1 large can stewed tomatoes
- 1 package elbow macaroni ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in an electric frypan; drain excess fat.
- Add a large can of stewed tomatoes to the cooked hamburger and mix well.
- Cook the mixture at low heat.
- While the meat and tomatoes are cooking, prepare the elbow macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked macaroni.
- Add the drained macaroni to the hamburger and tomato mixture.
- Cover and simmer at low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Optional: Freeze some portions for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the hamburger with garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs before browning. If you don’t have stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used as substitutes. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition, similar to the approach in One Pan Ham And Cheese Bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side salad, such as Spinach-Pea Salad, for a fresh contrast. You can also pair it with garlic bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. For an extra kick, sprinkle with grated cheese before serving, similar to how it's done in Cheddar Apple Breakfast Lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lazy Cook'S Escalloped Hamburg contains roughly 11 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 or chicken instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for hamburger in this recipe. Just be mindful that leaner meats may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor. Brown the meat as directed, and proceed with the rest of the recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground hamburger with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of the beef juices, and ensure the macaroni is egg-free for a complete vegetarian meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving. For longer storage, consider freezing portions, which can be a great convenience for busy days.
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).