Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe

When you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner that brings the whole family to the table, nothing beats a classic Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This comfort food favorite transforms simple ground beef and everyday pantry staples into a satisfying one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

I’ve perfected this recipe over the years, and it never fails to deliver on flavor while keeping preparation simple and stress-free. Let me walk you through creating this delicious casserole that’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

What is “Hamburger Supreme Casserole”?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a beloved American comfort food that layers seasoned ground beef with pasta, vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. This one-dish wonder combines the heartiness of a traditional casserole with the convenience of using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

The “supreme” in the name comes from the generous combination of flavors and textures – tender pasta, savory beef, colorful vegetables, and that irresistible cheese topping that gets golden and bubbly in the oven. It’s a complete meal that satisfies even the heartiest appetites while being budget-friendly and easy to prepare.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

• 12 oz egg noodles or elbow macaroni
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

How to Cook Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious casserole is straightforward when you break it down into manageable steps. Here’s my tried-and-true method for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare Your Kitchen and Preheat:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Gather all your ingredients and have them measured and ready to go.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add the egg noodles or elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta well and set aside. Don’t rinse it – the starch helps the sauce adhere better.

3. Brown the Ground Beef:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is no longer pink and has developed some nice browning.
• Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the same skillet with the beef.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Build the Beef Mixture:

• Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning.
• Add the frozen corn kernels, salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

6. Create the Creamy Layer:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and softened cream cheese.
• Mix until smooth and well combined – this creates the rich, creamy layer that makes this casserole supreme.
• Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.

7. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread half of the cooked pasta in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
• Layer half of the beef mixture over the pasta.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the beef layer.
• Add the remaining pasta, then top with the remaining beef mixture.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese on top.

8. Bake to Perfection:

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
• Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set up properly.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Hamburger Supreme Casserole is how adaptable it is to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Here are some variations I’ve tried and loved:

• Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute work wonderfully. For a spicier kick, try using ground Italian sausage mixed with ground beef.
• Pasta Options: Rotini, penne, or even rice can replace the egg noodles. For a healthier option, try whole wheat pasta or cauliflower rice.
• Vegetable Additions: Diced zucchini, mushrooms, or jalapeños add extra flavor and nutrition. Frozen mixed vegetables work great too.
• Cheese Variations: Pepper jack cheese adds heat, while Mexican blend cheese gives it a Tex-Mex flair. Gouda or Swiss create a more sophisticated flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free sour cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheese alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Through years of making this casserole, I’ve learned to avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercook it during the boiling stage.
• Not Draining the Beef: Excess grease will make your casserole oily and affect the texture of the final dish.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it hold together when you serve it.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Forgetting to Cover Initially: Covering the casserole for the first part of baking prevents the top from burning while ensuring even heating throughout.

How to Serve Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

This casserole is substantial enough to serve as a complete meal, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to round out the dinner:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with ranch or Italian dressing provides a nice contrast to the rich casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Corn Bread: Sweet cornbread complements the Tex-Mex flavors beautifully.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Making your casserole look as good as it tastes doesn’t require professional skills. Here are my favorite presentation tips:

• Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a pop of color.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, consider making individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes.
• Colorful Additions: A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of diced tomatoes on each serving adds visual appeal.
• Proper Serving Tools: Use a wide spatula to serve neat squares that show off all the delicious layers.

Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are my insider tips for casserole success:

• Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Double the Recipe: Make two casseroles at once – one for dinner and one for the freezer. Your future self will thank you on busy nights.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the center reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Leftovers Transform: Turn leftover casserole into stuffed bell peppers or use it as a filling for quesadillas.

How to Store Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious casserole for days to come:

Refrigerator Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage: For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags, or freeze the entire casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Properly stored, it will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions: For best results, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes for individual portions or 45-60 minutes for a full casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole without the cream cheese layer?
A: Absolutely! While the cream cheese adds richness, you can omit it or substitute with additional sour cream mixed with a bit of milk for consistency.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Make sure to cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking period, and don’t overbake it. The cheese should be melted and bubbly but not dried out.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to remove excess moisture. About 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes should work, but simmer them with the beef mixture until most liquid evaporates.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The cheese should be golden and bubbly, and when you insert a knife in the center, it should come out hot. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Q: Can I add beans to make it heartier?
A: Definitely! A can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans makes this casserole even more filling and adds extra protein and fiber.

Q: What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
A: Make your own with 1 teaspoon each of chili powder and cumin, ½ teaspoon each of paprika and oregano, and ¼ teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole has earned its place as a family favorite in my kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. The combination of tender pasta, savory seasoned beef, and that incredible creamy, cheesy topping creates a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

What I love most about this recipe is its flexibility – you can easily adapt it to your family’s tastes or dietary needs while still maintaining that delicious, home-cooked flavor everyone craves. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just wanting to create a memorable family dinner, this casserole delivers every time.

The best part? It’s made with simple, affordable ingredients that you can find at any grocery store, making it perfect for those times when you want something special without breaking the budget or spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it will become a regular feature on your dinner table. Happy cooking!