Hamburger Supreme Casserole

A Feast Fit for Royalty: Hamburger Supreme Casserole Extravaganza

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that elevates the humble hamburger to regal heights with our Hamburger Supreme Casserole. This dish, a symphony of ground beef, savory spices, and layers of velvety goodness, promises a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. In this culinary saga, we unveil the secrets behind crafting a casserole that reigns supreme on flavor, texture, and sheer indulgence. From the sizzle of ground beef to the bubbling crescendo in the oven, each step is a tribute to comfort food royalty.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole Base:

1. Ground Beef – 2 lbs: High-quality ground beef forms the foundation of this casserole.
2. Onion – 1 large, finely chopped: Chopped onion adds aromatic sweetness to the dish.
3. Garlic – 3 cloves, minced: Minced garlic enhances the savory profile of the casserole.
4. Salt and Pepper – To Taste: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
5. Tomato Sauce – 2 cups: Tomato sauce provides a rich and saucy base for the casserole.
6. Worcestershire Sauce – 2 tablespoons: Worcestershire sauce adds umami and depth to the dish.

For the Creamy Layer:

1. Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened: Softened cream cheese creates a luscious and creamy texture.
2. Sour Cream – 1 cup: Sour cream adds a tangy richness to the creamy layer.
3. Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup: Mayonnaise contributes to the creaminess and flavor complexity.
4. Egg – 1: An egg binds the creamy layer together during baking.

For the Topping:

1. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups: Shredded cheddar cheese crowns the casserole with gooey goodness.
2. Green Onions – 1/2 cup, sliced: Sliced green onions offer a fresh and mildly pungent garnish.

For the Optional Garnish:

1. Pickles – Sliced: Sliced pickles add a delightful tang and crunch.
2. Tomatoes – Diced: Diced tomatoes contribute a burst of freshness.

Instructions:

For the Casserole Base:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating the perfect baking ambiance.
2. Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Season and Add Sauces: Season the beef mixture with salt and pepper. Pour in tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

For the Creamy Layer:

1. Prepare Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and an egg until smooth and well combined.
2. Layer Creamy Mixture: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the creamy mixture evenly.
3. Top with Hamburger Mixture: Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture over the creamy layer.
4. Add Remaining Creamy Mixture: Dollop the remaining creamy mixture over the hamburger layer, spreading it evenly.

For the Topping:

1. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring full coverage.
2. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Finish with Green Onions: Once out of the oven, sprinkle sliced green onions over the melted cheese for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Optional Garnishes: Garnish individual servings with sliced pickles and diced tomatoes if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Bacon Bliss: Enhance the casserole by incorporating crispy bacon bits into the creamy layer or as a topping.
• Mushroom Magic: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the ground beef mixture for an earthy and savory dimension.
• Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture or mix a pinch of cayenne into the creamy layer.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour if the recipe calls for any thickening agents.
• Use a sugar-free tomato sauce to reduce the carb content.
• Opt for a keto-friendly mayonnaise or make your own using olive oil and egg.

Low-Carb Version:

• Choose a low-carb tomato sauce or reduce the quantity to manage carbs.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lower-carb alternative.
• Experiment with low-carb cheese options such as mozzarella or a blend.

As you savor the decadence of the Hamburger Supreme Casserole, you’re experiencing a culinary coronation of comfort. This dish, with its layers of creamy indulgence and savory goodness, is not just a meal; it’s a testament to the royalty of comfort food. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb adaptations, each forkful is a journey through the regal lands of taste. Share this feast with friends and family, and let the Hamburger Supreme Casserole reign supreme on your dining table. May every bite be a celebration of indulgence and culinary brilliance. All hail the supreme flavor!