Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole Recipe

Today, I am going to make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole, a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a satisfying family meal. This casserole combines ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a layer of crispy, cheesy goodness. It’s a simple yet delicious dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to your dinner table.

What is Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole?

Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole is a classic American comfort food that features seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked under a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s a budget-friendly, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

• Pioneer Woman Sweet Potato Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Buffalo Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Tex Mex Chicken Casserole

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Comforting: A warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cold nights.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that kids and adults will both enjoy.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Leftovers: It tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients Needed for Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (15 ounces) mixed vegetables, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups frozen tater tots
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole

1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, and milk. Stir until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole:
   • Spread the beef mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef mixture.
   • Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
   • Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

What Goes Well With Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole

• Green Salad: A fresh green salad provides a crisp contrast.
• Bread Rolls: Soft bread rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Pickles: Pickles add a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing side.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty meal, serve with mashed potatoes.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole

• Drain the Beef: Ensure you drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Even Layers: Spread the ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for added flavor.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
• Crispy Tater Tots: Ensure the tater tots are arranged in a single layer for maximum crispiness.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest before serving to set the layers.

Variations of Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable soup instead of chicken.
• Mexican-Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef and top with salsa and jalapeños.
• Healthier Option: Use lean ground turkey and low-fat cheese.
• BBQ Flavor: Mix in some BBQ sauce with the ground beef for a tangy twist.
• Breakfast Style: Add cooked bacon and scrambled eggs to the mixture for a breakfast casserole.

Storing Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole: Best Practices

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Label: Clearly label containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.

Reheating Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole: Best Practices

• Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave Option: Heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power.
• Cover for Moisture: Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
• Stir Occasionally: Stir during reheating to ensure even warming.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

How can I make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole healthier?

To make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole healthier, use lean ground beef or turkey, low-fat cheese, and reduce the amount of condensed soup by using a homemade version with lower sodium. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.

Can I prepare Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole in advance. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What are some good substitutions for tater tots in Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole?

If you don’t have tater tots or want a different topping, consider using mashed potatoes, hash browns, or a layer of sliced potatoes. Each of these options will give a different texture and flavor but will still complement the casserole well.

Can I make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole without canned soups?

Yes, you can make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole without canned soups. Substitute with a homemade sauce by mixing together 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then use it in place of the canned soups.

Is it possible to make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole dairy-free?

Yes, you can make Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole dairy-free. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the condensed soups with dairy-free versions or homemade sauces made with plant-based milk. Ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free as well.

Final Words

Hillbilly Hamburger Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners and gatherings. With its creamy, cheesy layers and crispy tater tot topping, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy-to-make dish with your loved ones!

Other Yummy Recipes:

• Tamale Pie Pioneer Woman
• Pioneer Woman Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Breakfast Burrito Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Scalloped Cabbage
• Pioneer Woman Cowboy Breakfast Casserole

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