There’s something special about a bubbling casserole coming out of the oven—the aroma alone feels like a warm hug. Among comfort foods, the Hamburger Supreme Casserole holds a cherished spot. With layers of savory ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, it brings together everything we love about hearty, home-cooked meals.

This recipe takes the classic hamburger flavor and turns it into a cozy, oven-baked masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a dish for a potluck, this casserole delivers rich flavor and comforting texture with minimal effort. The best part? It’s made in just five simple steps, so you can enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish that will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients: A Hearty Mix of Flavor

Here’s everything you need to create this flavorful casserole:

For the Casserole Base:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean or 80/20 blend for extra flavor)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
8 oz (225 g) wide egg noodles or elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

For the Creamy Layer:

1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
1 cup (225 g) cottage cheese
¼ cup (60 ml) milk
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Topping:

2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions: 5 Steps to Cozy Happiness

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain well and set aside. You don’t want to overcook it—it will continue cooking later in the oven, absorbing the rich sauce and flavors.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Once it begins to brown, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Your kitchen will start to smell irresistible!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer

In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, cottage cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder until smooth. This creamy mixture gives the casserole its signature rich and velvety texture, balancing the tangy tomato base.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Now it’s time to build your layers of flavor:

Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly on the bottom.
Add half of the beef mixture over the pasta.
Spread half of the creamy sauce on top.
Repeat the layers—pasta, beef, then creamy sauce.
Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.

The cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden topping that makes every bite irresistible.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Conservation and Storage: Keep the Comfort Going

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully.

Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until hot.
Freezer: For longer storage, cool the casserole completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tip: Store the cheese topping separately if you plan to freeze the casserole before baking. Add it fresh when ready to cook for the best texture.

Variations: Make It Your Own

This dish is endlessly customizable. Try these creative twists to match your mood or what’s in your pantry:

Tex-Mex Style: Add 1 tablespoon taco seasoning to the beef and top with pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. Serve with avocado or salsa on the side.
Mushroom Delight: Stir in 1 cup of sautéed mushrooms with the beef for an earthy depth of flavor.
Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Cheesy Dream: Mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a gooey, extra-melty top layer.
Low-Carb Swap: Replace noodles with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini spirals for a lighter, keto-friendly version.

No matter which variation you choose, the casserole remains hearty, satisfying, and utterly comforting.

Serving Suggestions: Cozy Up to Every Bite

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even more special.

Classic Comfort: Serve with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to balance the richness.
Vegetable Pairing: Roasted broccoli, green beans, or glazed carrots make wonderful companions.
Family-Style Feast: For gatherings, offer sides like mashed potatoes or corn on the cob to complete the comfort-food spread.
Simple Touch: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions over the top before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

If you’re hosting guests, serve it straight from the baking dish—it’s rustic, inviting, and sure to draw everyone to the table.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keeping it slightly firm ensures it doesn’t turn mushy after baking.
Balance the Layers: Spread ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Use Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents; shredding your own melts smoother and tastes richer.
Add a Crunchy Top: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers with a little butter on top before baking for an extra crispy finish.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit a few minutes helps it firm up for perfect slices.

Conclusion: Cozy Happiness in Every Bite

The Hamburger Supreme Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s comfort on a plate. Each layer brings together familiar, heartwarming flavors that remind us why homemade cooking is so special. From the savory beef and tangy tomato sauce to the creamy, cheesy topping, it delivers satisfaction in every bite.

This dish is perfect for weeknights when you crave something filling yet simple, or for weekends when you want to share comfort with loved ones. Its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to experience five delicious steps to cozy happiness—one comforting bite at a time.

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Hamburger Supreme Casserole: 5 Steps to Cozy Happiness

Author: hafsahafsa
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty, family-friendly casserole featuring layers of savory ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. This Hamburger Supreme Casserole is easy to make in just five steps, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole Base:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean or 80/20 blend)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained

1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

8 oz (225 g) wide egg noodles or elbow macaroni, cooked and drained

For the Creamy Layer:

1 cup (240 ml) sour cream

1 cup (225 g) cottage cheese

¼ cup (60 ml) milk

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Topping:

2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, cook until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer 5–7 minutes.

In a bowl, mix sour cream, cottage cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the pasta, half the beef mixture, and half the creamy sauce. Repeat layers and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot and cheese melts. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.