Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity with delicious flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish uses up leftover hamburger buns, making it not only tasty but also a smart way to reduce food waste. Its customizable nature allows you to add your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring every bite is a delight.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Total Time: 375 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 25 grams
Carbohydrates: 28 grams
Fat: 15 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 2 grams
Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
This dish strikes the perfect balance between a hearty meal and convenience. Packed with protein from the ground beef and nutrients from the vegetables, Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole is as nutritious as it is comforting. Plus, it’s a dish that the whole family will love, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole shines through.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole Step by Step
Ingredients
2-3 leftover hamburger buns
1 pound ground beef
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and bell pepper until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Tear the hamburger buns into pieces and place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour the beef mixture over the buns and mix well.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
Serve Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole warm with a fresh green salad on the side for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add an extra kick of flavor. For a heartier option, pair it with some homemade garlic bread.
How to Store Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole before adding the cheese. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat, adding cheese in the last 15 minutes of cooking for the best results.
Expert Tips for Cooking Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
- For added flavor, try sautéing different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms with the beef.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
- For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
- Use a variety of cheeses, like cheddar and mozzarella, for a deliciously cheesy topping.
Delicious Variations of Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
You can easily spice things up by adding chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist. For an herbed version, mix in Italian sausage along with the ground beef and fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try replacing the ground beef with a medley of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Frequently Asked Questions about Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
Can I use fresh hamburger buns instead of leftover ones? Yes, fresh buns work just fine and will add a nice softness to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and buns in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole? You can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Don’t wait any longer to try Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole. This dish offers amazing flavor along with the ease of slow cooking, making it a go-to for your family dinners. Its versatility means you can experiment and make it your own, ensuring satisfying meals for everyone!
Slow Cooker Hamburger Bun Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2-3 pieces leftover hamburger buns
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 piece bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and bell pepper until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Tear the hamburger buns into pieces and place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour the beef mixture over the buns and mix well.
- Top with shredded cheese.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted.
