HAMBURGER CASSEROLE

Posted on By Admin

This hamburger casserole is a comforting and straightforward dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with hearty flavors and minimal prep time, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. This post will guide you through the recipe, provide tips for customization, and suggest ideal pairings to complete your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients.
  • Family-Friendly: Appeals to both kids and adults alike.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.
  • Hearty and Filling: Perfect for satisfying hunger after a long day.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Cooking pot for pasta
  • Colander

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Main Cooking Steps:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
    • Add diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
    • Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Meanwhile, cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Final Steps:
    • Combine cooked macaroni with the meat sauce mixture in the skillet. Mix until well combined.
    • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top.
  4. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
  • Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella or Gouda.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni for a gluten-free version.

Storing Leftovers:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Food and Drink Pairings:

  • Side Dish: Serve with a simple garden salad or crusty garlic bread.
  • Beverage: Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a refreshing iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
  • How do I know when it’s done baking? The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Call to Action:

Try this quick and easy hamburger casserole for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family!

Recipes