Hamburger casserole is a classic comfort food that combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese into a delicious and satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty meal, this casserole is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (such as rotini, penne, or macaroni)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Corn and Tomatoes: Stir in the frozen corn, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the beef mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour half of the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting and hearty dish with a side salad or some garlic bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in place of ground beef. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze hamburger casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for tomato sauce? A: If you prefer not to use canned tomato sauce, you can make a homemade version by blending fresh tomatoes with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. You can also use marinara sauce or any other pasta sauce you like.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
This hamburger casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!