Macaroni-Hamburger Casserole is a beloved mid-century American comfort dish that blends pasta, seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty casserole reflects post-World War II cooking trends, when quick, filling, and budget-friendly meals gained popularity among busy families. The use of canned tomato sauce and dried seasonings made it convenient and accessible. Originating from the rise of one-dish dinners and home economics teachings, this casserole remains a nostalgic staple in many households. Its simplicity, versatility, and rich, savory flavors have kept it a favorite for generations.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp salad oil
- 16 oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp salt (divided use)
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp dry mustard
- 2 tbsp onion flakes OR ½ cup minced onion (or ½ cup minced onion)
- 3 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 oz grated Cheddar cheese (divided use)
- 1 tbsp salt ( for boiling water)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Brown ground beef in heated salad oil in a skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, water, 1 tsp salt, pepper, dry mustard, and onion flakes or minced onion.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
- While sauce simmers, bring 4 quarts of water to a rapid boil.
- Add 1 Tbsp salt and then elbow macaroni.
- Cook uncovered at a rapid boil for 6–8 minutes or until tender.
- Drain and rinse macaroni with cold water.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble
- Add 2 Tbsp grated cheese to meat sauce and stir until melted.
- Pour cooked macaroni into a buttered casserole dish.
- Pour about ¾ of the meat sauce over the macaroni and mix thoroughly.
Step 4: Top and Bake
- Top with remaining sauce.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips
- Cheese options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavors.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce.
- Vegetarian version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat.
- Add-ins: Consider mixing in peas, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Nutrition
Calories: 566kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 27gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 68mgSodium: 902mgPotassium: 668mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 427IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 117mgIron: 3mg
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