When you're looking for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole is just what you need. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and plenty of cheese, this dish is a hearty and delicious one-pan wonder. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even make-ahead meals for busy days.

Keep reading to learn how to make this tasty casserole, including step-by-step instructions, variations, serving ideas, and tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

What is Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a layered baked dish made with seasoned ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It combines all the elements of a comforting meal—savory beef, soft noodles, and rich cheese—into a hearty casserole that’s easy to put together and always a crowd-pleaser. It's similar to a classic hamburger casserole, but with extra ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream for a richer, "supreme" texture and flavor.

Ingredients List for Easy Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful casserole:

1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean for juiciness)
8 ounces pasta (egg noodles, rotini, or penne work well)
1 small onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel or similar, optional for a little spice)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
1 cup sour cream (or cream cheese for extra creaminess)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend like cheddar and mozzarella)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness on top)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

Sliced black olives for a briny kick
Sautéed mushrooms for added umami
Chopped bell peppers for sweetness and color
Crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Substitutions and Variations

This Hamburger Supreme Casserole is easy to customize to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also make this vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms in place of the beef.
Pasta: While egg noodles are a classic choice, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Cheese: Use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a spicy twist. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.
Sauce: If you want to add a bit more tang and creaminess, swap out the sour cream for cream cheese or Greek yogurt. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Vegetables: Add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or carrots for added nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before combining with the beef.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.

4. Add Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes

Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir everything together, and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it.

5. Mix in Sour Cream

Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream (or cream cheese) until it’s fully combined and creamy. This gives the casserole its rich, tangy "supreme" flavor.

6. Combine with Pasta

In a large mixing bowl (or right in the skillet if it's big enough), combine the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy beef sauce.

7. Layer and Top with Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, covering the entire surface.

8. Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

9. Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Make Hamburger Supreme Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Browning the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, making sure to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Browning the beef develops flavor, so don’t rush this step. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Step 2: Making the Creamy Sauce

Once the beef is cooked, adding sour cream or cream cheese gives the sauce its creamy, rich texture. This step elevates the dish from a simple beef and pasta bake to a "supreme" casserole.

Step 3: Combining the Pasta and Beef Mixture

Toss the cooked pasta and beef mixture together thoroughly. The sauce should coat the pasta well without being too thick or dry. If needed, add a splash of pasta water or beef broth to reach the perfect consistency.

Step 4: Topping with Cheese and Baking

The final touch is a generous layer of shredded cheese that will melt into bubbly, golden perfection in the oven. Don’t skip the mozzarella—it gives that irresistible stretchy cheese pull!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
Skipping the Cheese Layer: The melted cheese on top is what makes this casserole special. Don’t skimp on the cheese, and consider using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for the best results.
Not Draining the Beef: If your beef is too greasy, the casserole will turn out oily. Be sure to drain off any excess fat after browning the beef.
Undersalting the Pasta Water: Salting the pasta water ensures that your noodles have flavor. Be sure to add a generous pinch of salt to the water before cooking the pasta.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your casserole:

How to Serve Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. Green beans, roasted carrots, or broccoli pair well with the richness of the casserole.
Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or some crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor and presentation. You can also offer hot sauce or ketchup on the side for those who like to customize their plates.

Presentation Ideas for Hamburger Supreme Casserole

Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, spoon the casserole into individual bowls or plates and garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs.
Crispy Topping: If you want to add an extra crunch, sprinkle the top of the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking. This gives the dish a golden, crispy topping.

Hamburger Supreme Casserole Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding your own cheese is best, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the casserole.
Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you're baking it from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Freezing Option: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

Can I freeze Hamburger Supreme Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.

Can I use a different kind of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can use any short pasta you like. Rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni are all great choices.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a low oven until heated through.

Conclusion

Hamburger Supreme Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines ground beef, pasta, and cheese into one creamy, cheesy, baked casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weeknights, and the rich flavors and textures will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you serve it as a family-style meal or make it for a potluck, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a delicious, comforting casserole that’s as easy as it is satisfying!