Cheesy Hamburger Casserole

Easy Cheesy Hamburger Macaroni Casserole Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the flavors of ground meat, macaroni, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese soup. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.

History

The origins of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole are not clear, but it is a popular dish in American cuisine. It is a simple and budget-friendly recipe that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked macaroni
0.5 lb (227 g) ground meat (beef, veal)
0.5 small onion, chopped
0.75 cup tomato sauce or chopped tomatoes
0.5 can (10 oz (283 g)) cheddar cheese soup

How to prepare

Cook the macaroni until it is slightly tender. Drain it and set it aside.
In a small skillet, brown the ground meat and onions. Add the tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
Oil a 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish and spoon in one-third of the meat mixture. Add the cooked macaroni, followed by the remaining meat mixture. Spread the cheese soup over the top (it can be frozen unbaked). Cover the casserole tightly and bake it at 400° until it becomes bubbly.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese soup, such as cream of mushroom or cream of chicken, for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the macaroni until it is slightly tender, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Browning the ground meat and onions adds flavor to the dish.

- Covering the casserole tightly while baking will help to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground meat and onions adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground beef or ground turkey instead of veal in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cheesy Hamburger Casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cheesy Hamburger Casserole with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cheesy Hamburger Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheddar cheese soup) and wheat (macaroni), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a balanced meal that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Cheesy Hamburger Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for a family meal. With its combination of ground meat, macaroni, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese soup, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a cool autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma. Margaret was busy preparing dinner, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

"Oh, this?" Margaret said with a smile. "It's my Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. It's a family favorite."

I watched as Margaret effortlessly layered noodles, ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese in a baking dish. The whole process seemed so simple, yet the end result looked absolutely delicious. I couldn't wait to try it.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. It was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and savory beef all came together in perfect harmony. I couldn't get enough.

"Margaret, this is amazing!" I exclaimed. "I have to have the recipe."

Margaret chuckled and handed me a handwritten card with the ingredients and instructions for the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations.

From that moment on, the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a cozy night in with my husband. It was always a hit, and I was constantly asked for the recipe.

Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding some extra spices here and there to suit my own taste. But the heart of the dish remained the same – a comforting, hearty casserole that never failed to bring smiles to the faces of those who tried it.

One day, I was hosting a dinner party for some friends, and the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole was on the menu. As I was putting the finishing touches on the dish, I heard a knock on the door. It was my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, a sweet older lady who lived down the street.

"Hello, dear," Mrs. Jenkins said with a warm smile. "I couldn't help but smell that wonderful aroma coming from your kitchen. What are you cooking?"

I invited Mrs. Jenkins in and offered her a taste of the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Her eyes lit up as she took a bite, and she immediately asked for the recipe.

"I learned this recipe from my friend Margaret," I explained. "It's been a favorite in my household for years."

Mrs. Jenkins nodded and thanked me for sharing the recipe with her. As she left, she promised to make the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for her own family.

A few weeks later, I received a handwritten note from Mrs. Jenkins. She had made the casserole for her grandchildren, and they had absolutely loved it. Mrs. Jenkins thanked me for passing on the recipe and bringing joy to her family.

I smiled as I read the note, realizing how a simple dish like the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole had the power to connect people and create lasting memories. It wasn't just about the ingredients or the cooking process – it was about the love and care that went into each dish, passed down from one generation to the next.

As I continue to make the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole for my own family, I'm reminded of the special bond I share with Margaret and Mrs. Jenkins. Cooking has a way of bringing people together, and I feel grateful to have learned this recipe and shared it with others.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a comforting and delicious meal, give the Cheesy Hamburger Casserole a try. Who knows, maybe it will become a favorite in your own household, just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!