Savory Hamburger Casserole
Our Savory Hamburger Casserole is an inspired fusion of classic American comfort and French culinary flair. This delightful dish combines rich, hearty beef with a velvety béchamel sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers a cozy, yet gourmet dining experience.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 pound ground beef preferably grass-fed
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces
- 1 medium zucchini diced
- 1 cup cooked pasta preferably fusilli or rotini
- 1 cup cheddar cheese grated
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper freshly ground
Béchamel Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk preferably organic
- 1 pinch nutmeg freshly grated
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, enjoying the warm aroma.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned, approximately 7-10 minutes, and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes and zucchini, simmering for another 5 minutes.
Béchamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, creating a roux; cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in a pinch of nutmeg.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, the beef mixture, and pour over the béchamel sauce. Top with grated cheese and breadcrumbs for a delightful crunchy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Consider using sweet onions for their subtle flavor. For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Nutrition
Calories: 598kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 31gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 112mgSodium: 558mgPotassium: 561mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 711IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 416mgIron: 4mg
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