Hamburger Casserole

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Introduction:
Hamburger Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese into a hearty and satisfying meal. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a delicious and filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With its simple ingredients and comforting flavors, Hamburger Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni or any pasta of your choice
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Optional Toppings:

  • Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
  • Crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the uncooked pasta, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, frozen corn kernels, frozen peas, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

Description:
Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s reminiscent of homemade macaroni and cheese with a hearty twist. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, sweet vegetables, and melted cheese creates a deliciously indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Each bite is filled with savory flavors and creamy textures, making this casserole a family favorite.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
  • Total Fat: Approximately 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-10g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 50-70mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 600-800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3-5g
  • Sugars: Approximately 4-6g
  • Protein: Approximately 20-25g

Conclusion:
Hamburger Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is a convenient option for satisfying hunger and pleasing the whole family. Whether served as a main dish for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, Hamburger Casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Recommendation:
Serve Hamburger Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also customize this dish by adding your favorite ingredients, such as diced tomatoes, sliced mushrooms, or chopped spinach. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful casserole any time you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal.

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