Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

INTRODUCTION

Everyone loves a warm, hearty meal that brings back fond memories. Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is one of those dishes. It is simple to make and perfect for any gathering. This recipe combines ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce that makes it comforting and satisfying. The blend of flavors is delightful, and it’s a great way to bring the family together at the dinner table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole. Firstly, it is quick to prepare. You can have it on the table in less than an hour. This makes it great for busy families. Secondly, the ingredients are common and easy to find. Most people already have them in their kitchens. Thirdly, it tastes amazing! The mix of beef, tomatoes, and cheese creates a rich flavor that everyone enjoys. Lastly, it’s a comforting dish that warms the heart. Eating it feels like a hug on a plate. You will find that each bite brings joy and satisfaction.

HOW TO MAKE Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

Making Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is straightforward. With simple steps, you will create a dish that your family will love. Follow the easy instructions, and you will have a delicious dinner in no time.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools. Here’s what you will need:

• A large skillet
• A large pot
• A 9×13-inch casserole dish
• A mixing bowl
• A spoon for stirring
• A colander for draining noodles

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 large white onion, diced
• 0.5 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, or more to taste

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard the grease.

2. Mix tomato sauce, sugar, garlic salt, and salt into the ground beef. Let it simmer until flavors blend, about 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and cover the skillet.

3. While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook egg noodles in the boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite, about 7 to 9 minutes. Drain.

4. While the egg noodles are cooking, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish.

5. In a bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, and onion together.

6. Layer 1/2 of the egg noodles into the prepared casserole dish. Top with 1/2 of the sour cream mixture, then 1/2 of the ground beef mixture. Repeat the layers once more. Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes.

HOW TO SERVE Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

Once Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is ready, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop out portions and serve it warm. It goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread. A dollop of extra sour cream on top can add a fun twist. Enjoy it with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories along with a delicious meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator. Just place the casserole in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven or microwave until warm.

If you want to freeze it, let the casserole cool completely first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it the next day.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To enhance your meal, think about adding some sides. A garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely. You could also serve some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. For a special touch, consider making garlic bread to enjoy with the casserole.

A great drink to serve with this meal is iced tea or lemonade. These refreshing drinks can nicely balance the flavors of the casserole.

VARIATIONS

Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole is versatile. You can change it up based on your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add Veggies: Mix in some bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a healthier twist.
• Different Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with other kinds of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

FAQs

Q: Can I use whole wheat egg noodles?
A: Yes, whole wheat egg noodles work great! They will give a nutty flavor.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Use a meat substitute like lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the ingredients. Just use a larger dish and adjust cooking time if necessary.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it the day before and keep it in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole

Preparing Grandma’s Hamburger Casserole in advance is quite easy. You can make the meat sauce, cook the noodles, and mix the sour cream mixture the day before. Just layer everything in the casserole dish and cover it. Store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it the next day. This way, you save time on busy weekdays or during special occasions. When you are ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it is cold from the fridge. Enjoy this delicious meal with your loved ones!

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