Macaroni And Cheese Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining creamy macaroni and cheese with savory ground beef, baked to perfection for a comforting family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese according to the package directions.
- Mix the cooked hamburger, prepared macaroni and cheese, and cream of celery soup in a mixing bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or chicken soup for a different flavor. Adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers can enhance the dish and provide extra moisture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef works well.
Serving Suggestions
This Macaroni and Cheese Hamburger Casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or roasted potatoes. You might also enjoy it with a side of Bountiful Rice for a filling meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 173 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 814mg 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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while macaroni is traditional, you can use any short pasta shape such as shells or penne. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the right tenderness before mixing with other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I don't like cream of celery soup?
If cream of celery soup isn't to your taste, you can easily substitute it with cream of mushroom or chicken soup. Alternatively, you could make a homemade cheese sauce using butter, flour, milk, and your choice of cheese for a more tailored flavor.
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).