Microwave Creole Hamburger
A hearty and flavorful creole-inspired hamburger dish, packed with vegetables and spices, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal over noodles or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble ground beef into a 2-quart glass casserole dish. Microwave on High 5 to 6 minutes; drain.
- Combine remaining ingredients: onion, celery, green pepper, parsley flakes, flour, tomatoes, and salt.
- Mix the vegetable mixture with the cooked ground beef.
- Microwave on High for 7 to 8 minutes longer until heated through.
- Serve over noodles or rice if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. If ground beef is not on hand, ground turkey can be a lean substitute. Additionally, you can vary the vegetables based on what you have; bell peppers, corn, or even diced zucchini work well. This dish is reminiscent of other hearty American recipes like Skillet Hamburger Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creole Hamburger over cooked noodles or rice for a satisfying meal. A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes, adding a refreshing crunch to the plate. For a comforting twist, you might also try it with crusty bread or alongside mashed potatoes. This dish pairs beautifully with Beef, Beans And Noodle Skillet for a fulfilling dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. This keeps the moisture in and prevents the dish from drying out. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Creole Hamburger contains roughly 134 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (137% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 666mg per serving (29% 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 instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a healthier alternative and can be used in this recipe. It will still provide great flavor, especially when seasoned well with the vegetables and spices. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, as turkey can dry out faster than beef.
What can I use instead of tomatoes?
If you prefer not to use canned tomatoes, you can substitute with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Alternatively, fresh tomatoes can be used; just chop them finely. Adding a teaspoon of sugar can balance acidity if using fresh tomatoes.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based substitute such as lentils or crumbled tempeh. Ensure that the rest of the ingredients are vegetarian-friendly, and you can still enjoy the same delicious flavors.
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).