Looking for a hearty, family-friendly dish that brings comfort to the dinner table? The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is your answer! This cheesy, beefy, and flavorful casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Packed with ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for both novice and experienced cooks.

What is a Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered dish that combines savory ground beef, onions, macaroni, and mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom soup. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese on top gives it that irresistible golden, cheesy finish. This casserole is the perfect balance of flavors and textures—meaty, cheesy, and comforting, with a slight crunch from the baked cheese.

Ingredients for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef – Provides the rich, savory base of the dish.
1/2 cup onion, chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy sauce that binds all the ingredients together.
1/2 cup milk – Thins the sauce for the perfect consistency.
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic – Adds a punch of aromatic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
1/4 teaspoon pepper – Adds just the right amount of warmth and complexity.
1/4 teaspoon thyme – Lends a slight earthy, floral note to the casserole.
1 (4 oz) can mushrooms, drained – Adds a meaty, umami-rich texture.
2 cups uncooked macaroni – The pasta provides a hearty foundation for the casserole.
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated – The cheesy topping that melts beautifully for a gooey, savory finish.

Key Ingredient Breakdown: What Makes This Recipe Special?

Ground Beef: The star of the dish, ground beef gives this casserole its satisfying, rich flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of the cheddar balances the richness of the creamy sauce and adds an essential cheesy bite to every forkful.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This canned soup makes the casserole incredibly creamy, with earthy undertones from the mushrooms.
Thyme: A surprising addition, thyme brings a subtle herbaceous note that complements the richness of the beef and cheese without overpowering the dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, letting the onions soften and release their sweetness. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Macaroni
While the beef is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once the beef mixture is ready, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, thyme, and canned mushrooms. This creamy mixture will coat all the ingredients in a savory sauce that’s essential for this comforting casserole.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a 2-quart casserole dish, start by spreading half of the beef mixture on the bottom. Follow with a layer of cooked macaroni, and then sprinkle a generous handful of sharp cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering process, but save some cheese for the top.

Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt beautifully. After 20 minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with that deliciously gooey cheese pull and a medley of rich flavors in every bite.

Tips for Making the Perfect Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Drain the Beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
Layer Carefully: When layering the casserole, try to evenly distribute the macaroni and beef mixture for a balanced bite every time.
Use Sharp Cheddar: The sharpness of the cheddar cheese adds a necessary tang to balance the creamy mushroom sauce. Avoid using mild cheeses that might get lost in the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the oven.
Too Much Salt: The cream of mushroom soup and cheese already contain salt, so be mindful when adding more seasoning.
Skipping the Cheese Top: Don’t forget to add the final layer of cheese on top—it’s what gives the casserole that golden, crispy finish that makes it so irresistible!

Variations of the Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to add some color and extra nutrition.
Cheese Options: Switch up the cheese by using Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of different cheeses for a unique twist.

How to Serve and Present Your Hamburger Supreme Casserole

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, balanced meal. The hearty, cheesy nature of this dish makes it a perfect centerpiece for casual dinners or potlucks.

Storing Leftover Casserole

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warm.

If you plan on freezing the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole as directed, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it the next day. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or need a substitute, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead. Both options will maintain the creamy consistency of the casserole.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the macaroni for gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings rich flavors and cheesy goodness to your table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. And if you love comforting, easy-to-make meals like this, make sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe