Grandma's Hamburger Casserole
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Grandma's Hamburger Casserole, a timeless dish that brings together tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and a rich, savory sauce, all topped with melted cheese. This casserole is a perfect blend of simplicity and taste, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Its layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese create a satisfying meal that evokes the warmth of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef – Provides a savory and hearty base for the casserole.
- 1 medium onion diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic richness.
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles – Offer a tender and chewy texture.
- 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce – Brings a tangy and rich tomato flavor.
- 1 can 10.5 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup – Adds creaminess and depth.
- 1 cup sour cream – Provides a tangy and creamy element.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts to create a gooey cheesy topping.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhance and balance the flavors.
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn – Introduce a touch of sweetness and color.
Instructions
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.
Cook the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream.
- If using, fold in the frozen peas or corn.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy the casserole warm, perhaps with a side salad or crusty bread.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if needed.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Alternatives: While cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different taste profile.