# Hamburger Casserole: A Beloved Family Classic
This hamburger casserole is a scrumptious dish that merges comforting flavors with robust ingredients, making it a favored choice for families. Featuring soft pasta, ground beef, and various vegetables enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce, this casserole is ideal for weeknight meals or family gatherings.
## Flavor Notes
The casserole features a deliciously cheesy and savory flavor profile, attributed to the mix of seasoned beef, soft noodles, and a rich tomato sauce. Each mouthful is brimming with comfort and contentment, establishing it as a favorite recipe among families.
## Preparation Tips
– **Advance Preparation**: This casserole can be put together in advance and kept in the refrigerator for up to two days prior to baking.
– **Ingredient Alternatives**: For a healthier twist, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
## Serving Ideas
Enjoy the hamburger casserole alongside homemade garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a satisfying meal the entire family will appreciate.
## Ingredient Recommendations
– **Pasta**: Rotini twists are perfect for holding the savory sauce, though fusilli, penne, or egg noodles are also good choices. Cook the pasta until it is just al dente for optimal texture after baking.
– **Ground Beef**: Select lean ground beef and drain any excess grease after browning. Ground turkey or Italian sausage can provide a delightful variation.
– **Vegetables**: You can use frozen mixed vegetables, such as carrots, peas, corn, and green beans, for convenience. Cooking them in the pasta water can save time.
– **Sauce**: The sauce consists of a mixture of pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, and classic herbs like oregano and basil. Feel free to use store-bought or homemade sauce.
– **Cheese**: Any type of cheese will work, but a combination of pre-shredded cheddar and mozzarella is a handy option.
## Steps to Prepare Hamburger Casserole
1. **Brown the Beef**: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned and incorporate the sauce ingredients. Allow it to simmer.
2. **Cook the Pasta**: In another pot, boil the pasta. Add the frozen vegetables during the final minutes of cooking.
3. **Mix and Bake**: Combine all ingredients in a casserole dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
### Make-Ahead Advice
Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to two days. Before baking, allow it to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.
## Storing Leftovers
– **Refrigeration**: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
– **Freezing**: Portions can be frozen either before or after baking. Wrap securely in foil, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and bake as directed.
## Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories**: 490
– **Carbohydrates**: 38g
– **Protein**: 26g
– **Fat**: 26g
– **Saturated Fat**: 11g
– **Cholesterol**: 82mg
– **Sodium**: 437mg
– **Potassium**: 510mg
– **Fiber**: 4g
– **Sugar**: 3g
This hamburger casserole is not only quick to make but also a comforting meal that unites the family. Savor this hearty dish any night of the week!