Macaroni Hamburg Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole combining tender macaroni, savory hamburger, and melted cheese, enriched with onions and tomatoes. Perfect for family dinners, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it an easy and filling meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté sliced peeled onions in butter until golden.
- Add hamburger; cook slowly until done.
- Drain excess fat from the meat.
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Combine cooked macaroni with all ingredients, including half of the grated cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Turn the mixture into the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or bell peppers while sautéing the onions. If you prefer a leaner dish, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also use low-fat cheese or a mixture of cheeses for a different taste. To save time, use pre-cooked macaroni or a store-bought cheese sauce instead of grated cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a more filling option, consider pairing it with dishes like Cheese And Potato Casserole for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Hamburg Casserole contains roughly 990 calories, with 27g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1233mg per serving (54% 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 a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the covering and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, ensuring it's heated through before serving.
What can I substitute for canned tomatoes?
If you don't have canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes (about 4-5 medium), diced and cooked down with a bit of water. Alternatively, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes can also work well. Adjust the seasoning as needed to maintain the flavor balance in the casserole.
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).