Hamburger Casserole
Looking for a comforting dish that combines the best of a hamburger in a hearty casserole? This hamburger casserole is a family favorite, blending ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese into a delicious one-dish meal. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Your entire family will love the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, green, yellow)
– 1 cup chopped onion
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (for topping)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of casserole):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 20g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
4. Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
5. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, rice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix in the milk until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9. Add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter option. Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb version. Dairy-free cheese can replace regular cheese for a vegan alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this hamburger casserole with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs well with pickles or coleslaw, adding a nice crunch and contrasting flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts. This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the ground beef; it can become tough.
- Ensure vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking.
- Use low-sodium soup to control salt levels.
- Do not skip the cheese topping; it adds essential flavor.
- Check for doneness before serving; the casserole should be hot throughout.
Helpful Tips
- Mix in some diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a twist.
- Top with fresh herbs for added freshness before serving.
FAQs
Can I make hamburger casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Can I use leftovers in this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked meat or vegetables work great in this dish, making it a perfect way to utilize leftovers creatively.
Is hamburger casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your rice and toppings are gluten-free.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option.
What sides go well with hamburger casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or cornbread make excellent side dishes that complement the casserole nicely.
Conclusion
This hamburger casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that brings the family together over hearty flavors and melted cheese. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Hamburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers red, green, yellow
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, rice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in the milk until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
