Lunch & Dinner

Hamburger Casserole Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Name: Hamburger Casserole Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 large white onion, finely chopped; 1 pound ground chuck beef; 1 package wide egg noodles; 2 cans tomato puree; 3 ounces softened cream cheese; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, or more as desired; 1 cup plain sour cream; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon granulated white sugar, adjust to taste; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Irene Adkins June 10, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dig into the juicy details of hamburger casserole, it’s helpful to consider what pairs beautifully with this dish. Simple sides can elevate your meal experience tremendously. Think of serving it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

A tangy coleslaw can also add a lovely crunch that complements the casserole’s richness. For the ultimate comfort food experience, try a dollop of sour cream on top or a sprinkle of green onions for that fresh burst.

What is Hamburger Casserole?

Hamburger casserole combines ground beef, noodles, and a creamy sauce into a baked dish that exudes homey charm. Originating from quick, satisfying fare designed to feed families on busy weeknights, this casserole has stood the test of time.

It’s the kind of meal that, when brought to the table, sparks nostalgia and a hunger that tugs at the heartstrings. Imagine a fusion of flavors that blend into a beautiful harmony. Every bite is like being wrapped in a warm blanket after a long day.

How Does It Taste?

The flavor of hamburger casserole is unique. The ground beef is savory, while the cream cheese and sour cream lend a delightful tang. The sharp cheddar adds a cheesy richness that makes every forkful melt in your mouth.

The slight sweetness from the sugar balances the acidity of the tomato puree perfectly. It’s a mix of comforting textures and tastes—creamy, cheesy, and just slightly sweet, with that meaty goodness grounding it all.

Why You’ll Love This?

You might be wondering why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. First off, it’s versatile. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have in your pantry.

It’s a one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup, and let’s not overlook the fact that it is easy enough to prepare even on the busiest days. Best of all? It makes excellent leftovers. Who doesn’t love food that gets even better with time?

Ingredients

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s what you’ll need:

1 large white onion, finely chopped
1 pound ground chuck beef
1 (8-ounce) package wide egg noodles
2 cans (each) tomato puree
3 ounces softened cream cheese
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, or more as desired
1 cup plain sour cream
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon granulated white sugar, adjust to taste
1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly throughout.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the wide egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. This step is crucial to achieve the perfect noodle texture.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion, followed by the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat. This process adds a depth of flavor. Trust me; you can smell the deliciousness already.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the tomato puree, softened cream cheese, sour cream, smoked paprika, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth and blended. This will create a lovely, creamy sauce that envelops everything in flavor.

Step 5: Combine with Noodles

Toss the cooked noodles into the beef sauce mixture. Use a spatula and ensure every noodle is covered. The sauce should envelop the noodles like a cozy hug.

Step 6: Assemble in a Baking Dish

Transfer the noodle mixture into a greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a bubbly, oozy topping.

Step 7: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. This is where the magic happens.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Take a moment to enjoy the irresistible aroma wafting through the air.

Tips On Making Hamburger Casserole

Season Wisely: Adjust your spices based on preference. Adding garlic powder or pepper can elevate flavors.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooking them ensures they won’t turn mushy during baking.
Mix Up the Cheeses: Substitute mozzarella for a stretchier texture or mix different cheeses for extra flavor.
Experiment with Add-ins: Diced vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, can amp up the nutrition and taste.
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish the day before and refrigerate. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

How Do You Store This Hamburger Casserole?

If you have leftovers (which is likely, given how hearty this dish is), you can store hamburger casserole in an airtight container. It lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to three months. Just ensure you cool the casserole completely before freezing.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Hamburger Casserole?

Sometimes, you might not have every ingredient on hand. Here are five substitutes you can consider:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out beef for a leaner option. It works well but may require seasoning adjustments due to its lighter flavor.
Vegetarian Ground Meat: For a meatless version, use plant-based ground meat. Many options mimic the texture and taste quite well.
Cauliflower Noodles: If you want to lower carbs, consider using cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Instead of cream cheese and sour cream, this can create a creamy sauce.
Greek Yogurt: For a healthier alternative to sour cream, Greek yogurt provides the same tangy flavor but with added protein.

Conclusion

Hamburger casserole has a unique charm that keeps families coming back for seconds. It’s a blend of comfort and convenience, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and versatile ingredients, it’s more than just another meal; it’s a recipe filled with love and memories.

Whether you serve it on a casual Friday or for a gathering, you’ll find that it never goes out of style. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the deliciousness unfold! Happy cooking!

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Hamburger Casserole Recipe – Delicious Meal Ideas

Author: Irene Adkins Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr

Servings: 6 Calories: 507 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A bustling family kitchen on a Friday night, aromas lingering in the air, laughter echoing against the walls. You want to whip up something filling, delicious, and, let's be honest, easy. Enter hamburger casserole, a dish that fits the bill perfectly.

As a registered dietitian and self-proclaimed food enthusiast, I’ve spent years experimenting with comfort foods. This casserole has found its way to my family table time and again.

It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavor – a true crowd-pleaser. Let me take you on a journey through its layers of flavor.