Name: Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix; 1 cup water; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 pounds ground beef; ½ yellow onion, diced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of mushroom soup; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup butter, melted; Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend

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Introduction to Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Enter my kitchen, where there’s magic in the air and food speaks your language if you’re anything like me, then time always runs short when it comes to preparing meals. That’s why I adore this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole so much. It’s deliciously seasoned ground beef sits alongside a creamy soup base and is topped with cheddar biscuits, very food for feeding a hungry family. Not only does it come together quickly, it delivers big on flavor. Really, the pickiest of eaters will love this dish. So let’s get cooking together!

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is the best thing since sliced bread! It’s sweet comfort in every bite and so ridiculously easy to get on the table on those busy weeknights when you’re juggling work and family. Few ingredients and simple steps make a hearty end to the craving’s tale and bring everyone to the table. Believe me, you’ll be putting it into heavy rotation.

Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole, you’ll need:

Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This mix is the star of the show! It brings that signature cheesy, buttery flavor, making your dinner pop.
Water: Just a little liquid to bring the biscuit mix to life. Don’t worry; it’s simple and easy!
Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess and a sharp flavor that melds beautifully with the casserole.
Ground beef: This is the heart of the dish. It’s rich in protein and gives the casserole its hearty texture. Feel free to use lean beef for a slightly lighter option.
Yellow onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the beef. If you’re not a fan, you can use shallots or skip it altogether!
Onion powder: A handy seasoning for a boost of flavor without the chopping hassle.
Garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It enhances the savory goodness in the dish.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that perfectly balance the dish’s flavors.
Cream of mushroom soup: This creamy component ties everything together and gives richness to the casserole. Using a low-sodium version is a great option!
Sour cream: This ingredient adds tanginess and creaminess, enriching the casserole’s base.
Butter: Melted butter brushed on the biscuits brings a golden, crispy finish. Consider substituting with olive oil if you prefer a lighter option.
Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend: This optional blend is fantastic for elevating the flavor. You can find pre-made blends or mix your own using garlic powder and dried herbs.

For exact measurements, check the end of the article. They’re all available for printing. It’s that easy!

How to Make Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Let’s get ready to create a comforting and delicious Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish that everyone will love. Cooking should be a joy, so let’s dive right in!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and turns out just right. While it heats, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix with a cup of water. It’s so easy and a lifesaver for busy moms! Give it a good stir until it’s well-blended and set it aside. Trust me, the convenience of this mix makes all the difference when time is tight.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, it’s time to brown the beef! Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then toss in your ground beef along with the diced yellow onion. Sauté until the beef is nicely browned and there’s no pink left. This usually takes about 6–8 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease! This step is crucial for a tasty casserole without that greasy aftertaste. You want the flavors to shine, not swim!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now for the fun part! Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then stir in two cans of cream of mushroom soup and half a cup of sour cream. It’s going to get creamy and dreamy! Mix everything together until well combined and smooth out the top. The creaminess is what makes this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole so comforting and delicious.

Step 4: Add the Biscuit Topping

Time to create that irresistible biscuit layer! Using a large spoon, scoop the biscuit mixture and drop it on top of the beef mixture, making about 5 to 6 evenly spaced biscuits. Don’t worry about making them perfect! They’ll spread out as they bake, so just get them roughly in place. This step is where the casserole gets its sweet charm and golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

It’s showtime! Place the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for 20–30 minutes. Keep an eye on those biscuits—they should turn a beautiful golden brown. If you’re like me and love crispy edges, check early. When it’s done, everything will be bubbling, and your kitchen will smell heavenly. That’s the promise of a fantastic meal ahead!

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touch

For the grand finale, mix melted butter with the Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend. Brush this fragrant concoction generously over the baked biscuits. This adds an extra layer of flavor that’ll make your mouth water! Serve up your Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole hot, and enjoy the smiles around the table!

Tips for Success

Use lean ground beef for a lighter dish. It helps reduce excess grease.
Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Layer the biscuit toppings evenly for consistent cooking and a lovely presentation.
Check your casserole a bit early to avoid over-baking the biscuits.
For busy days, prep your ingredients ahead and store them in the fridge.

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining your biscuit mix and other ingredients. Any big bowl will do!
Skillet: A sturdy skillet is perfect for browning the beef. A non-stick option makes cleanup easy.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish works well. You can also use an oven-safe casserole dish!
Spoon or spatula: For mixing and scooping the biscuit topping onto the beef.
Oven mitts: Safety first! Protect your hands when pulling that delightful casserole out of the oven.

Variations of Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Turkey or Chicken Option: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken. It’s a lighter alternative that still packs in the flavor!
Vegetarian Delight: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a meat-free version. Add plenty of colorful veggies for added texture and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Throw in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat in their dish!
Herbed Upgrade: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist. This brings a burst of freshness to the casserole.
Cheesy Goodness: Use different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack to experiment with flavors. You can never have too much cheese!

Serving Suggestions for Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Pair your casserole with a simple green salad for a fresh contrast.
Serve with Sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
Offer crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Complement with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water.
For a family gathering, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!

FAQs about Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole

Can I make Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven without preheating. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work wonderfully in this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole. Each option gives a unique twist while maintaining that comforting flavor.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Adding some fresh veggies on the side creates a lovely balance to the cheesy richness of the casserole.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed throughout—no one wants cold casserole!

Can I freeze Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before packing it into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven. It’s like a warm hug waiting for you!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole brings me such joy! It’s more than just a meal; it’s about coming together as a family and sharing laughter over a hearty dish. Each bite is a cozy hug that sparks fond memories. I love how easy this recipe is, letting me squeeze in quality time, even on the busiest of days. Plus, the incredible aroma wafting through the kitchen makes it feel special. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish promises smiles and full bellies. It’s everything you want in a comforting meal!