Loaded Hamburger Casserole
This loaded hamburger casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender potatoes, flavorful ground beef, and a layer of gooey melted cheese. Perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please your family and friends.
History
Casseroles became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century as an all-in-one meal solution for busy families. By layering protein, starch, and vegetables, casseroles offered convenience, versatility, and comfort. The hamburger casserole, a variation of this theme, became a household favorite due to its affordability and adaptability
The history of casseroles traces back to ancient times when people first discovered the efficiency of cooking meals in a single dish. The term “casserole” comes from the French word for “saucepan” or “stew pan,” referring to the dish in which the food is both cooked and served. However, the modern concept of casseroles as we know them took off in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Hamburger casseroles gained popularity during the mid-20th century, especially in the United States. After World War II, families sought quick, economical meals that could stretch ingredients further and reduce preparation time. The introduction of canned soups, frozen vegetables, and processed cheese made casseroles an easy and convenient option for busy households. Hamburger casseroles became a staple because ground beef was affordable, versatile, and packed with protein.
This dish also became a reflection of regional influences. For example, some versions include spicy seasonings in the Southwest, while Midwestern families might add cream-based sauces or hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Today, hamburger casserole remains a nostalgic comfort food, cherished for its simplicity and adaptability.
Benefits
- High Protein Content: Ground beef provides essential amino acids and iron for muscle growth and energy.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The potatoes are packed with potassium and vitamin C.
- Customizable: This recipe can easily be adjusted to fit dietary preferences, like substituting ground turkey or adding extra vegetables
1. Nutritional Value
- High in Protein: The ground beef provides a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair, keeping you full and energized.
- Vitamin-Rich Vegetables: The addition of potatoes, bell peppers, and optional vegetables like carrots and peas offers essential vitamins (like vitamin C and potassium) and minerals.
- Balanced Meal: This dish combines protein, carbs, and fats for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
2. Comfort Food
This casserole is the epitome of comfort food, with its creamy, cheesy layers. The warm, hearty flavors make it perfect for cold evenings or when you crave something nostalgic and filling.
3. Budget-Friendly
- Ground beef and potatoes are cost-effective staples, making this casserole an affordable way to feed a large group.
- The dish uses common pantry ingredients like cream of mushroom soup, cheese, and milk, saving on grocery expenses.
4. Customizable for Preferences
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit dietary needs:
- Make it Healthier: Swap ground beef for leaner options like ground turkey or chicken.
- Add More Vegetables: Include zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower slices for a keto-friendly version.
5. Convenient and Time-Saving
This one-dish meal saves time on cooking and cleanup. Its simple prep allows even beginner cooks to succeed, making it an excellent choice for busy families.
6. Great for Meal Prep
- The casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed, making it ideal for meal prepping or storing leftovers for later.
- It reheats beautifully, providing quick meals throughout the week.
7. A Crowd-Pleaser
Loaded with cheesy, savory goodness, this dish is universally loved. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and gatherings, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The loaded hamburger casserole is more than just a comfort food—it’s a nourishing, affordable, and adaptable dish that suits a variety of occasions and dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a meal ahead, it’s a wholesome choice that delivers both flavor and satisfaction.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded carrots (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep Ingredients: Slice potatoes thinly, dice onions, bell peppers, and shred cheese.
Method:
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Layer Ingredients: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start by spreading a layer of sliced potatoes. Add a layer of ground beef, followed by sautéed vegetables and a sprinkle of shredded carrots (if using). Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
- Pour Sauce: Evenly pour the prepared sauce over the layers in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese: Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Baking:
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Iron: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 25g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Potassium: 640mg
- Calcium: 180mg (15% of daily value)
- Iron: 3mg (15% of daily value)
- Vitamin C: 15% of daily value
Key Nutritional Highlights
- High Protein Content: Each serving delivers 25g of protein, supporting muscle health and keeping you full longer.
- Rich in Potassium: The potatoes contribute significantly to potassium intake, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
- Essential Vitamins: The vegetables in the casserole provide vitamin C and iron, essential for immunity and oxygen transport in the blood.
- Balanced Macros: This dish strikes a good balance between protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting meal.
Tips for Healthier Nutrition
- Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium canned soup or make your own sauce to lower the sodium content.
- Swap Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cheese to cut down on saturated fat while maintaining flavor.
- Add Fiber: Incorporate more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli to boost fiber content.
This casserole is not only indulgent but also offers plenty of nutrition, making it a smart choice for family dinners or meal prepping!
Lovers of Loaded Hamburger Casserole
This dish is a favorite for potlucks, family gatherings, and weeknight dinners. It’s beloved by both children and adults for its savory layers and cheesy topping. The casserole can also be adapted to suit different tastes, making it a favorite among home cooks who love to experiment.
Conclusion
Loaded hamburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and textures in a single dish. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to for busy households. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is a delicious, satisfying choice.