This Hamburger Mushroom Bake is a cozy dish that combines juicy ground beef with tasty mushrooms and melty cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and delicious—perfect for a comforting meal!
On busy nights, this bake shines because it’s so easy to whip up! I love serving it with a side salad to balance out the cheesy goodness. You’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. I often use lean ground beef to reduce grease, but turkey or chicken can work as lighter options. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
Mushrooms: Sliced button or cremini mushrooms are great here, adding texture and flavor. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, diced bell peppers or zucchini can be good substitutes. Just sauté them for a similar effect.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a classic flavor. I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, vegan cheese shreds can work, too, though the melt quality will differ.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These keep the bake creamy. If you want a healthier version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic stand-in and adds protein, or use low-fat mayo for a lighter touch.
How Do I Ensure My Beef and Mushrooms Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the beef and mushrooms correctly is key to a great bake. Start by heating your skillet to medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft first—that releases a lovely aroma!
- Add mushrooms and cook until they brown and lose most of their moisture; this takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush it!
- Then, add the ground beef. Stir it and break it apart to ensure even cooking. Make sure it’s no longer pink before mixing in with the creamy sauce.
- Lastly, draining excess grease after cooking the beef helps keep this dish from being too oily.
With these steps, you’ll achieve a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
Hamburger Mushroom Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hamburger Mushroom Bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, for a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bake cooks evenly right from the get-go!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your olive oil or butter. Once warmed, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Next, add in the sliced mushrooms. Cook these for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to brown. Don’t forget to season them lightly with salt and pepper while cooking!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet, add the ground beef to the cooked mushrooms and vegetables. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.
5. Mix the Creamy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of your shredded cheddar cheese, and the cooked beef and mushroom mixture. Mix everything well. Taste and add dried thyme, salt, and pepper as needed for flavor.
6. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly. Then, top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake Your Dish:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, you can garnish the bake with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely presentation. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. It will still provide fantastic flavor, but you may want to add a bit of seasoning to enhance the taste since turkey can be milder.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra creaminess!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bake in advance and refrigerate it before the final baking step. Just cover it well and store for up to a day. When ready to serve, take it out of the fridge while the oven preheats and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This Hamburger Mushroom Bake pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or pasta to soak up the delicious creamy sauce!
