Macaroni, Cheese And Hamburger Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, cheesy macaroni, and creamy mushroom soup, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a frying pan, crumble the ground beef, brown, and drain the fat.
- Cook the macaroni in boiling water according to package directions.
- In a 2-quart baking dish, mix the milk, butter, soup, and powdered cheese sauce until smooth.
- Warm the mixture slightly in the microwave to make it easier to mix.
- Add the ground beef and drained macaroni to the sauce and stir until combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the sauce mixture before combining with the macaroni and beef. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute with turkey for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different soup flavors for varied taste, such as using cream of chicken instead of cream of mushroom.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty one-dish meal that pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on top. It also makes a great dish for potlucks alongside sides like Corn Bread With Hamburger or American Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Cheese And Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 1313 calories, with 12g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 113g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 688mg per serving (30% 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, you can substitute macaroni with any small pasta shape like shells or penne. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to maintain the right texture in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the mixing stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a cold casserole.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of milk for a completely vegetarian option while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
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).