Mimi'S Hamburger Casserole
A hearty hamburger casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add oregano, garlic salt, worcestershire, basil, paprika, parsley, salsa, and tomato sauce to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Top with cheddar cheese.
- Cover and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
- Serve hot with garlic bread and tossed salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for additional flavor and texture. If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preference, and consider using a different type of cheese like mozzarella for a milder flavor. This dish is a great way to use up leftover cooked pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious when served hot, alongside garlic bread and a fresh tossed salad for a complete meal. You might also consider pairing it with steamed vegetables or a side of corn for a comforting family dinner. It pairs beautifully with Hamburger Rolls With Tomatoes for extra heartiness.
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 until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, for about 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mimi'S Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 13 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze Mimi's Hamburger Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the regular baking instructions.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used as substitutes for ground beef in this casserole. Each option will bring a different flavor profile, so choose one that suits your dietary preferences or needs.
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).