Hamburger Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a classic Hamburger Casserole, especially when it’s packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This version brings together hearty ingredients with a hint of smoky paprika and a delightful crunch from crispy onions, creating a truly memorable meal. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for any night of the week.

I often find myself reaching for this recipe on busy weeknights when I need a delicious meal on the table without a lot of fuss. It’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser when entertaining, as it’s simple to prepare ahead of time and always gets rave reviews. The way the flavors meld together in the oven is simply magical, resulting in a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Hamburger Casserole is a true weeknight hero in my kitchen. It’s incredibly quick to put together, making busy weeknights so much easier. The flavor is just amazing, a perfect blend of savory beef and creamy cheese that everyone devours. Plus, it’s super adaptable! You can basically swap out ingredients to suit your family’s tastes. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that never disappoints.

Hamburger Casserole Ingredients

The magic of this Hamburger Casserole truly shines through its ingredients. It is a beautiful symphony of pantry staples and fresh produce. Each item plays its part to create a memorable dish. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

• Ground Beef: This provides the hearty, savory base. It offers rich flavor.
• Pasta: Fusilli or cavatappi hold sauce so well. They are ideal here.
• Green Bell Pepper & Yellow Onion: These add natural sweetness. They also add depth.
• Garlic: It’s crucial for fragrant flavor. It brightens the whole dish.
• Smoked Paprika & Black Pepper: These spices add warmth. They offer a hint of smokiness.
• Beef Broth & Tomato Sauce: They create a luscious sauce base. This makes it cohesive.
• Country Dijon Mustard & Worcestershire Sauce: These add tangy complexity. They bring that savory umami.
• Cream Cheese & Milk: This creamy duo makes the sauce divine. It turns silky and luxurious.
• Pepper Jack Cheese: It melts beautifully. It adds a mild spice and gooeyness.
• Crispy Onions: These are the crowning glory. They add a delightful crunch.
• Green Onions: They offer fresh flavor. They also add a pop of color.

Substitutions and Tips:

Want a bit more heat? Try Monterey Jack with jalapeños or a sharp cheddar. If you can’t find fusilli or cavatappi, rotini or penne work great too. For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. You can chop your vegetables ahead of time for even faster preparation.

How to Make Hamburger Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Oven

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with olive oil. This simple step prevents sticking later on. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta. Cook it for just one minute less than the package directs. This way, the pasta finishes cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta well. Then, set it aside for now.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables

Grab a large sauté pan or Dutch oven. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Toss in the chopped green bell pepper and yellow onion. Cook this mixture. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks. Continue until the beef is nicely browned. The vegetables should start to soften and turn lightly golden. This process usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Now, stir in the minced garlic. Add the smoked paprika, black pepper, and 1 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt. Cook for about one minute more. Stir constantly. You want the garlic to become fragrant. This quick step really wakes up all the flavors in the hamburger casserole.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth. Add the tomato sauce. Stir in the country Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken up nicely.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Remove the pan from the heat. Whisk in the cubed cream cheese and milk. Continue whisking until the cream cheese is fully melted. The sauce should become smooth and creamy. This step is key for that classic casserole taste.

Step 6: Combine and Assemble

Gently fold in one cup of the shredded pepper jack cheese. Add the sliced green onions. Stir in the cooked pasta. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated in the delicious sauce. Transfer this hearty mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Sprinkle the remaining cup of pepper jack cheese over the top. Evenly distribute the crispy onions over the cheese layer. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top. The edges should be bubbly and irresistible.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, sprinkle a few more sliced green onions on top. This adds a fresh finish and a nice pop of color. Let the hamburger casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up slightly. Now, enjoy your amazing meal!

How to Store Hamburger Casserole

Don’t you hate when delicious leftovers go to waste? You can store this tasty Hamburger Casserole easily. Put any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, microwave a single serving. Or, warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven. For long-term storage, freeze portions. Use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight first.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta initially; it will finish cooking in the oven.
• Use good quality ground beef for the best flavor.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before adding the cheese.
• Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
• Crispy onions lose their crispness if added too early; add them just before baking.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes cooking this Hamburger Casserole a breeze. You likely have most of these basics already.

• A large pot is essential for cooking the pasta.
• A 13×9 inch baking dish is perfect for assembling the casserole.
• You’ll need a large sauté pan or Dutch oven for browning the beef.
• A wooden spoon or spatula is handy for stirring and breaking up the meat.
• Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• A whisk is needed for creating the creamy sauce.
• A good knife and cutting board are necessary for chopping vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious Hamburger Casserole is great on its own. It also pairs nicely with a few simple sides. Consider serving it with a fresh side salad. A light vinaigrette offers a nice contrast. Steamed broccoli or green beans are also excellent choices. They add a healthy element. Don’t forget some crusty bread. It’s perfect for catching any extra sauce. A glass of iced tea quenches thirst. A light beer can also complement the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, it might need a few extra minutes. This is normal when baking a chilled dish like our favorite hamburger casserole.

What if I don’t have ground beef?

While ground beef is traditional, feel free to swap it out. Ground turkey works well too. For a lighter meal, consider ground chicken. Even plant-based crumbles make a delicious vegetarian hamburger casserole option.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

For an even creamier sauce, simply whisk in a little extra cream cheese. A splash more milk also does wonders. Make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it. This ensures a smooth, velvety sauce for your hamburger casserole.

Can I freeze the cooked Hamburger Casserole?

Absolutely! This hearty hamburger casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely first. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave until it is thoroughly heated through.

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