Why Make This Recipe
Hamburger casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic hamburger with the convenience of a casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe is simple to prepare, and it uses ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike!
How to Make Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp yellow or Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 oz shredded cheddar, about 1 1/2 cups, divided
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (if using)
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
- In a medium pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni. Stir occasionally until it is very al dente, about 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a 13 by 9 inch baking dish.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef in large chunks and cook, undisturbed, until it turns deep brown on the bottom, about 4 minutes. Break up the meat with a spatula and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until there’s no pink left, about 4 minutes more. Transfer the cooked beef to the baking dish.
- Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, cook the onion and garlic, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and 1 cup of water. Season with pepper and 1 teaspoon of salt. Transfer this mixture to the baking dish.
- Add 3 oz of cheddar cheese and stir until everything is well-distributed. Top with the remaining 3 oz of cheddar cheese, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you are using them.
- Bake the hamburger casserole in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 to 12 minutes. Once out of the oven, top with chopped romaine lettuce.
How to Serve Hamburger Casserole
Serve the hamburger casserole hot, right out of the oven. You can garnish with additional chopped lettuce or even some extra pickles if you like. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Hamburger Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool down to room temperature. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.
Tips to Make Hamburger Casserole
- Make sure to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. Add more spices if you like it spicier!
- This casserole can be assembled a day in advance, allowing you to pop it in the oven when you are ready to cook.
Variation
You can customize this casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
FAQs
Can I freeze hamburger casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, heat it from frozen, adding extra time to cook.
What sauce can I use instead of mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for an alternative to mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, you can mix it up with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
