Amish Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that warms the soul and satisfies a hungry family. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy pasta, and a crispy topping, it’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Having made this casserole countless times for friends and family, I can honestly say it never fails to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
- Delicious Comfort Food: This casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. The rich flavors meld together perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground beef, this dish also includes pasta, which provides carbohydrates to keep you satisfied longer.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks will feel confident whipping this up!
- Customizable for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a potluck, this casserole fits the bill beautifully.
- Family Favorite: I love how it brings everyone together at the table. It’s quick to make, yet feels festive enough for gatherings.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
The cooking method involves browning ground beef, combining it with cooked pasta, and baking it until bubbly and golden brown.
My Experience Making This Recipe
The first time I made this casserole, I learned just how forgiving it is. While I mistakenly added too much cheese the first time, it turned out decadently cheesy, proving that sometimes kitchen slip-ups can lead to delicious discoveries. After making it a few times, I perfected the balance of flavors, and now it’s a go-to recipe in my home.
How to Make Amish Hamburger Casserole
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, draining any excess fat. Combine it with cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, and a blend of spices. Once mixed, transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, top it with cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly. You can expect a cozy aroma filling your kitchen as it cooks!
Expert Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the meat not only enhances the flavor but also improves the overall texture of the casserole.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is traditional, mix it up with pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder profile.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even spinach to boost nutritional value without sacrificing taste.
- Correct Baking Dish Size: Make sure to use a proper-sized dish (about 9×13 inches) to ensure even cooking and bubbling.
How to Serve Amish Hamburger Casserole
Serve this casserole hot straight from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread on the side. For a family gathering, consider serving it in individual ramekins for a fun twist!
Storage and Reheating Guide
Allow leftover casserole to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, and then warm it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based cream of mushroom soup for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick!
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty, meatless alternative.
Nutritional Highlights
This casserole provides a hearty serving of protein from the beef, while the pasta offers complex carbohydrates essential for energy. It’s also rich in Vitamin D from the mushrooms. Keep portion sizes in mind to enjoy a balanced meal without overindulging.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry Casserole: If your casserole comes out dry, try adding a splash of broth or some extra cream of mushroom soup before baking.
- Burnt Topping: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking; if the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil until the middle is cooked through.
- Undercooked Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta until it’s al dente before mixing it into the beef mixture; it will continue to cook in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Amish Hamburger Casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold when it goes into the oven.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or a store-bought creamy soup like chicken or celery. Just be cautious about the peak flavor you want to achieve.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes! Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen casserole?
Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. This helps maintain texture and flavor when it’s reheated.
Amish Hamburger Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting dish of seasoned ground beef, creamy pasta, and a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, draining any excess fat.
- Combine the cooked beef with cooked pasta, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pairs well with a green salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American