Name: Hamburger Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 oz Egg Noodles; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 small onion; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 14 oz pasta sauce; 14 oz tomatoes; salt and pepper; 1 tsp McCormick Oregano Leaves; ½ tsp McCormick Basil Leaves; ¼ tsp McCormick Garlic Powder; 2 cups Cheddar Cheese

This delightful hamburger casserole combines hearty ground beef with tender egg noodles and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners, this recipe offers rich flavors and satisfying textures all in one dish.

Photos of Hamburger Casserole Recipe

For this recipe, you might need a few items that aren't always in your pantry. Egg noodles might be something you don't use every day, but they are essential for the texture of this dish. Additionally, McCormick oregano leaves, McCormick basil leaves, and McCormick garlic powder add a unique blend of flavors and are crucial for the seasoning.

Ingredients For Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Egg noodles: These form the base of your casserole and provide a tender, chewy texture.

Ground beef: Lean ground beef adds robust, meaty flavor to the dish.

Onion: A small onion gives a sweet and savory note to the casserole.

Frozen mixed vegetables: These add both nutrition and a variety of textures to the casserole.

Pasta sauce: This contributes a rich, tomatoey flavor that blends well with the other ingredients.

Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add freshness and a slight acidity to balance the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.

McCormick oregano leaves: These dried herbs provide a slightly bitter, aromatic flavor.

McCormick basil leaves: Adds a sweet and peppery flavor to the dish.

McCormick garlic powder: Provides a background garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

Cheddar cheese: Melts to create a creamy, cheesy top layer.

One reader, Cullin Hoch says:

This hamburger casserole recipe is a hit! The flavors blend perfectly, and the cheesy topping is irresistible. It's easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. Highly recommend!

Cullin Hoch

Techniques Required for Making Hamburger Casserole

How to cook egg noodles: Follow the package directions to cook the egg noodles until they are al dente, then drain and rinse them. How to brown ground beef and onion: Cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is translucent, then drain any excess fat. How to simmer sauce: Combine the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, frozen vegetables, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and salt & pepper in a pan. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. How to combine ingredients: Mix the cooked noodles, meat sauce, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese in a 2½-quart casserole dish. How to bake casserole: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F, then bake the casserole for 20 to 22 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.

How To Make Hamburger Casserole

This hamburger casserole recipe is an easy meal that has ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta sauce to make a perfectly seasoned and comforting dish.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6ozegg noodles
1lblean ground beef
1small onion,diced
1cupfrozen mixed vegetables
14ozpasta sauce,canned or jarred
14oztomatoes,diced and drained
Salt and pepper,to taste
1tspMcCormick Oregano Leaves
½tspMcCormick Basil Leaves
¼tspMcCormick Garlic Powder
2cupscheddar cheese,divided

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse.
Brown ground beef and onion over medium-high heat. Drain any fat.
Add pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, frozen vegetables, oregano, basil, garlic powder and salt & pepper. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Combine noodles, meat sauce and 1 cup of cheese in a 2½-quart casserole dish.
Top with remaining cheese and bake for 20 to 22 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition

Calories: 552.59kcal
Fat: 32.52g
Saturated Fat: 14.76g
Trans Fat: 1.43g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.85g
Carbohydrates: 34.46g
Fiber: 4.32g
Sugar: 6.62g
Protein: 30.36g
Cholesterol: 123.69mg
Sodium: 725.03mg
Calcium: 361.67mg
Potassium: 776.68mg
Iron: 3.88mg
Vitamin A: 213.41µg
Vitamin C: 12.96mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Hamburger Casserole

To enhance the flavor of the ground beef, consider seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper while browning. This helps to build a deeper, more robust taste right from the start. Additionally, make sure to finely chop the onion so it blends seamlessly into the meat sauce, providing a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Pre-cook the noodles: Cook the egg noodles ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This will save you time when assembling the casserole.

Use pre-chopped vegetables: Opt for frozen mixed vegetables or pre-chopped fresh vegetables to cut down on prep time.

Batch cook ground beef: Brown extra ground beef and freeze it in portions. This way, you can quickly add it to your casserole without the need to cook it each time.

Shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid the hassle of grating it yourself.

One-pot cooking: Use a single pot to cook the ground beef and mix in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and vegetables. This reduces the number of dishes you need to clean.

Substitute Ingredients For Hamburger Casserole Recipe

egg noodles - Substitute with whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat pasta offers a similar texture and is a healthier alternative with more fiber.
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
small onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.
frozen mixed vegetables - Substitute with fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables can offer a more vibrant taste and better texture.
pasta sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning: Crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning can provide a fresher and more customizable flavor.
tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can add a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while reducing the need for additional salt.
pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat and spice to the dish.
mccormick oregano leaves - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano can provide a more intense and aromatic flavor.
mccormick basil leaves - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil offers a more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to dried basil.
mccormick garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can provide a more robust and authentic garlic flavor.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese can offer a milder flavor and a gooey, melty texture.

Presentation Tips for Serving Hamburger Casserole

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the hamburger casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets to create an elegant and refined look.
Use decoration: Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves to add a pop of color and freshness.
Layering technique: Create distinct layers by placing a base of egg noodles at the bottom, followed by the meat sauce, and then topping with a generous layer of cheddar cheese. This will give a visually appealing cross-section when served.
Cheese crust: Allow the top layer of cheddar cheese to form a golden, crispy crust by broiling for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. This adds texture and visual appeal.
Accompanying sides: Serve with a side of lightly dressed mixed greens or a simple salad to balance the richness of the casserole and add a refreshing element to the plate.
Elegant plating: Use a wide, shallow bowl or a large, flat plate to serve the casserole. This provides ample space for garnishes and sides, enhancing the overall presentation.
Drizzle of sauce: Add a final touch by drizzling a bit of extra pasta sauce or a balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate for a sophisticated finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Casseroles

Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Large pot: Needed to cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
Colander: Used to drain and rinse the cooked egg noodles.
Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat.
Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the ground beef and onion as they cook.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring out the pasta sauce, frozen mixed vegetables, and cheddar cheese.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the oregano leaves, basil leaves, and garlic powder.
2½-quart casserole dish: Used to combine the noodles, meat sauce, and cheese, and to bake the casserole.
Cheese grater: If not using pre-shredded cheese, this will be needed to grate the cheddar cheese.
Cutting board: Used to chop the small onion before cooking.
Knife: Essential for chopping the onion.
Can opener: Needed to open the cans of pasta sauce and tomatoes.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the noodles, meat sauce, and cheese before transferring to the casserole dish.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hamburger Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the hamburger casserole:
- Divide the cooled casserole into individual portions or freeze the entire dish, depending on your preference.
- Wrap the portions or dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the package with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
To reheat the frozen casserole:
- If frozen in individual portions, thaw the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a whole frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours, depending on its size.
- Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and cover the dish with fresh foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes for individual portions or 45-60 minutes for a whole casserole.
- If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of tomato sauce or beef broth before reheating to maintain moisture.

How To Reheat Leftover Hamburger Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover hamburger casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method ensures even heating and prevents the casserole from drying out.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Transfer the leftover casserole to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the casserole is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the noodles to become rubbery.
For a crispy top, reheat the casserole in the oven as mentioned above, but remove the aluminum foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to brown and create a delicious, crunchy crust.
If you have a small portion of leftover casserole, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the leftover casserole and stir occasionally until heated through. This method works well for individual portions and allows you to add extra flavors, such as fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, to brighten up the dish.
For a more adventurous twist, transform your leftover hamburger casserole into a new dish. Stuff the casserole into bell peppers, zucchini boats, or tortillas for a delicious and creative meal. Bake the stuffed vegetables or wrap the tortillas and heat them in the oven until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Interesting Trivia About Hamburger Casserole

A fun fact about this hamburger casserole recipe is that it combines the comfort of a traditional casserole with the flavors of a classic hamburger. This makes it a versatile dish that can appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This hamburger casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and cheddar cheese are affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of frozen mixed vegetables and pantry staples like pasta sauce and diced tomatoes further keeps costs down. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is This Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This hamburger casserole recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side. The main culprits are the high-fat ingredients like ground beef and cheddar cheese, which can contribute to excessive saturated fat and calorie intake. The recipe also lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.

However, with a few tweaks, this casserole can be transformed into a healthier dish:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce saturated fat
Increase the amount of mixed vegetables to at least 2 cups for added fiber and nutrients
Use whole wheat egg noodles to boost the fiber content
Reduce the amount of cheddar cheese to 1 cup, and consider using a lower-fat variety
Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a comforting casserole that's also nutritious and satisfying. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in the overall healthiness of a dish. Don't be afraid to experiment with ingredients and proportions to find a balance that works for you and your family.

Editor's Opinion on the Hamburger Casserole Recipe

This hamburger casserole recipe is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner. The combination of lean ground beef, mixed vegetables, and egg noodles creates a balanced meal. The use of oregano, basil, and garlic powder adds a delightful depth of flavor. Topping it with cheddar cheese ensures a rich, creamy finish. However, consider sautéing the vegetables before adding them to enhance their texture and flavor. Overall, it's a simple yet satisfying recipe that can be easily customized to suit personal tastes.

Enhance Your Hamburger Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Imagine the crisp, tender asparagus spears, kissed by the oven's heat, and cloaked in a golden garlic and parmesan crust. This side dish brings a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the hearty hamburger casserole.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Dive into the delightful crunch of sweet potato fries, seasoned to perfection and baked until they're irresistibly crispy. These fries add a sweet and savory contrast to the rich, cheesy goodness of your main course.

Caesar Salad with Homemade Croutons: A classic Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy homemade croutons, offers a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the robust flavors of the hamburger casserole.

Buttery Garlic Bread: Slices of warm, buttery garlic bread, with their golden, crispy edges and soft, fragrant centers, are the perfect vehicle for soaking up every last bit of the savory meat sauce from your casserole.

Mixed Berry Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad bursting with the colors and flavors of mixed berries, mint leaves, and a hint of citrus. This refreshing side dish adds a sweet and tangy finish to your meal, balancing the richness of the hamburger casserole.

Similar Casserole Recipes to Try

Cheesy Beef And Rice Casserole: Dive into a comforting dish where ground beef meets rice and cheddar cheese. This casserole is a perfect blend of flavors, with a hint of tomato sauce and a sprinkle of herbs to elevate your dinner game.

Chicken And Broccoli Alfredo Bake: Indulge in a creamy alfredo sauce mixed with tender chicken and fresh broccoli. Topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, this bake is a delightful twist on a classic pasta dish.

Taco Pasta Casserole: Experience a fusion of Mexican flavors and pasta in this exciting casserole. With seasoned ground beef, black beans, and corn, all topped with cheddar cheese and taco seasoning, it's a fiesta in every bite.

Sausage And Pepperoni Pizza Casserole: Bring the taste of pizza to your table with this hearty casserole. Featuring Italian sausage, pepperoni, pasta, and a rich marinara sauce, all smothered in mozzarella cheese.

Vegetable Lasagna: A vegetarian delight packed with layers of zucchini, spinach, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce. This lasagna is a wholesome and flavorful option for a meatless main course.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Hamburger Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are perfect for whetting the appetite and setting the stage for a delicious main course.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt elevate the flavors to new heights. This simple yet elegant appetizer is a perfect way to kick off any meal, offering a burst of freshness and flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center oozing out as you take your first bite. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave a luxurious dessert. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense flavors. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream creates a sensory delight that will leave your guests in awe. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for an elegant presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery crust adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a textural masterpiece. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. The zesty lemon flavor is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. A slice of this pie is sure to brighten any occasion.

Why trust this Hamburger Casserole Recipe:

This hamburger casserole recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, combining the hearty flavors of lean ground beef, egg noodles, and cheddar cheese. The blend of pasta sauce and diced tomatoes with oregano, basil, and garlic powder ensures a rich, savory taste. Quick to prepare and bake, it's perfect for busy weeknights. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, deliciousness, and the comfort it brings to the table.

Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know your experience with this delicious Hamburger Casserole Recipe!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free egg noodles. Everything else in the recipe should be naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels on your pasta sauce and other ingredients to be sure.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! You can use fresh vegetables if you prefer. Just chop them up and add them in step 4. You might need to simmer the sauce a bit longer to ensure the fresh veggies are tender.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Just assemble it up to step 5, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

If you don't have cheddar cheese or want to try something different, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.