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In the world of casseroles, there’s a special kind of magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something truly comforting and delicious. The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a testament to this magic—an easy, hearty dish that families have loved for generations. It’s a humble meal that delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. With tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and creamy mushrooms, all enveloped in melted cheddar cheese, each forkful is a comforting hug for your taste buds. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- 2-quart casserole dish
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 can (4 oz) mushrooms, drained
- 2 cups macaroni, uncooked
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. Set it aside.
- Cook the macaroni 1 to 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, season the ground beef with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté it with the chopped onion until the beef is cooked through and the onions are tender.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and drained mushrooms. Season to taste.
- Spread half of the meat mixture in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Layer with half of the macaroni and then half of the grated cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture and macaroni.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 10 minutes more.
Tips for Success
For the best results, slightly undercook the macaroni before baking; this prevents it from becoming mushy in the casserole. Also, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re a fan of veggies, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the ground beef and cheddar cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that will keep you full and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you might have added. Enjoy!
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