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Hamburger Casserole

Delicious Hamburger Casserole: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Savor the comforting flavors of this Hamburger Casserole, a cheesy family favorite perfect for dinner in under an hour.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: American
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 8 oz Whole Wheat Elbow Noodles Can substitute with rotini, fusilli, or egg noodles.
  • 2 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Feel free to swap in any cooking oil you prefer.
  • 2 medium Carrots Can replace with peas or zucchini.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can be an excellent substitute.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Red or yellow bell peppers are great alternatives.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; use garlic powder if fresh isn't available.
  • 1 tbsp Hot Sauce Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika or chili powder is acceptable.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Adds warmth and flavor.
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 cup Low Sodium Beef Broth Chicken broth or water are good substitutes.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Marinara or spaghetti sauce can work just as well.
  • 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt Sour cream or cream cheese can be used.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese A mix of cheeses will work beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Use regular breadcrumbs, preferably whole wheat, if needed.
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions Chives can be a lovely alternative.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hamburger Casserole
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
  2. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the whole wheat elbow noodles for about 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Sauté carrots, onion, and bell pepper for about 10 minutes until onion is soft.
  4. Add minced garlic, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Stir for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Increase heat to medium-high and brown the ground beef for approximately 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
  6. Stir in beef broth and tomato sauce, then simmer for about 3 minutes before removing from heat.
  7. Fold in cooked noodles, Greek yogurt, and 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese until well combined.
  8. Pour the mixture into the casserole dish, top with remaining cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and green onions.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until topping is golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This Hamburger Casserole is best served fresh but can be stored and reheated easily, maintaining its comforting qualities.

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