Introduction: Why Hamburger and Cream of Mushroom Soup are a Winning Combo
Cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger are a classic combination that has been a staple in American kitchens for decades. The rich, creamy texture of the soup perfectly complements the savory flavor of ground beef, making it a versatile base for countless dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish for a family gathering, cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger are both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Basic Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating delicious cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. In fact, you probably have most of these items in your pantry right now:
- Ground Beef (Hamburger): Lean ground beef is preferred for a less greasy dish, but regular ground beef works just as well if drained properly.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can use a canned version for convenience or make a homemade version for a more robust flavor.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and enhance the flavor of the beef.
- Butter or Oil: For sautéing the onions and browning the beef.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate the dish.
For a variety of other delicious cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger, check out this collection.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Classic Hamburger and Cream of Mushroom Casserole
Preparation: Getting Started
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and a nice, bubbly top.
- Brown the Hamburger: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter or oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Building the Casserole
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine with Soup: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, mixing well until everything is evenly coated. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a splash of milk or beef broth.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased casserole dish, spread the beef mixture evenly. If you want to add a bit more texture, consider layering in cooked rice, pasta, or even potatoes.
Baking the Casserole
- Add a Topping: For a bit of crunch, sprinkle shredded cheese or breadcrumbs over the top of the casserole. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This cream of mushroom soup recipe with hamburger is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. The creamy sauce begs to be sopped up with crusty bread, so be sure to have some on hand.
Variations to Try
Creamy Hamburger Stroganoff
One popular variation of cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger is Hamburger Stroganoff. This recipe adds a bit of a tangy twist with the addition of sour cream.
- Prepare the Beef: As with the casserole, start by browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
- Add the Soup: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, but this time, also add a dollop of sour cream and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for that classic Stroganoff flavor.
- Serve Over Noodles: Instead of baking, simply simmer the mixture until thickened and serve over egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.
You can explore more variations of cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger here.
Hamburger Supreme Casserole
For those who enjoy a bit more variety in texture and flavor, the Hamburger Supreme Casserole might be just what you’re looking for.
- Add Vegetables: After browning the beef, add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans to the skillet.
- Mix in Macaroni: Cooked macaroni pasta is then mixed into the beef and soup mixture before being poured into the casserole dish.
- Cheesy Topping: Top with a generous layer of shredded cheese before baking. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
For more hearty cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger, check out this recipe.
Cream of Mushroom Soup with Hamburger for Meal Prep
One of the great things about cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger is that they are perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tips for Reheating
- Microwave: Place your portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or damp paper towel. Reheat on medium power to avoid drying out the dish.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs About Cream of Mushroom Soup with Hamburger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in these cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger. Just be aware that it has a milder flavor, so you might want to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. These cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger also freeze well for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, let the dish thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure any pasta or breadcrumbs used are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Cream of mushroom soup recipes with hamburger are versatile and comforting, lending themselves to endless variations. Whether you’re making a simple casserole, a quick stovetop Stroganoff, or preparing meals for the week, these recipes are sure to please. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
For more creative ways to use cream of mushroom soup, visit this page. And for those looking to explore the world of ground beef and mushroom combinations further, be sure to check out this collection of recipes.