Description

This easy Hamburger Casserole is a comforting and savory dish perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, cooked pasta or rice, and melty plant-based cheese, it delivers hearty satisfaction with minimal effort. Enhanced by smoked turkey bacon and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), this casserole is flavorful, nutritious, and adaptable for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Base

1 lb lean ground beef
4 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup diced tomatoes (natural)

Carbohydrates

2 cups cooked pasta or cooked rice

Dairy Alternatives and Seasonings

1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare the Base: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, stirring occasionally to crumble evenly. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers; cook until softened and aromatic.
Build the Flavor: Stir in diced tomatoes (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to combine flavors well.
Combine with Pasta and Cheese: Fold in cooked pasta or rice along with shredded plant-based cheese. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent to help the casserole set when baked.
Add Smoked Turkey Bacon: Stir in the chopped smoked turkey bacon to add a smoky crunch that complements the savory base.
Bake Until Golden: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Use pre-cooked pasta or rice to save time.
Season in layers for richer flavor.
Brown ground beef in batches if needed for better texture.
Add fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving.
Allow casserole to rest 10 minutes after baking to firm up.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: Hamburger Casserole, ground beef casserole, plant-based cheese, quick dinner, smoked turkey bacon, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, easy comfort food