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This Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole blends juicy beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and cheddar cheese underneath a biscuit crust for the ultimate cozy meal. I come back to this casserole whenever I want something guaranteed to please everyone at my dinner table.
I whipped this up on a whim with leftover biscuit mix and now it is always a request at family game night. The smell pulls everyone straight to the kitchen
Ingredients
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: gives the signature savory biscuit top Look for one with strong garlic herb notes
- Water: activates your biscuit mix Cold water helps keep the biscuit light
- Cheddar cheese: brings creamy richness Use a sharp cheddar for extra punch and always shred your own if you can
- Ground beef: is the classic base Choose an 80 percent lean blend for the right amount of flavor and moisture
- Yellow onion: builds a sweet, fragrant base Opt for a firm onion with golden skin for best flavor
- Onion powder: intensifies savory background
- Garlic powder: bumps up the savory flavor Look for a fine, fresh powder
- Salt and pepper: essential for bringing out all the other flavors
- Cream of mushroom soup: creates a velvety sauce Pick the condensed variety for best texture
- Sour cream: adds subtle tang and silken body Go for full fat for ultimate creaminess
- Butter: finishes the biscuits with a golden top Use real butter for the best texture
- Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend: brings even more savory herby flavor Look for a blend with parsley garlic and a hint of pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Biscuit Dough:
- Combine Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix water and half your cheddar in a large mixing bowl Mix until just blended to avoid tough biscuits and set this aside
- Brown the Beef and Onions:
- In a heavy skillet cook ground beef and diced onion over medium high heat Stir often and break up the meat with a spatula Keep cooking until no pink remains then drain off extra grease for a lighter casserole
- Mix in Seasonings and Sauce:
- Stir in onion powder garlic powder salt and pepper Work in the cream of mushroom soup sour cream and remaining cheddar cheese Use a sturdy spoon and make sure everything is well incorporated The mixture should be thick creamy and evenly mixed Smooth the top for an even surface
- Top with Biscuits:
- Scoop big spoonfuls of biscuit dough on top of the meat mixture Place 5 or 6 mounds evenly apart The biscuit will expand and cover most of the casserole as it bakes
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place your dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes The biscuits should rise and become golden brown Tap the top to check that they are not doughy underneath
- Brush with Garlic Butter:
- Mix melted butter with the Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend and brush generously over the biscuits Right after baking is best so the butter soaks in for flavor Serve right away for the best texture
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My favorite part is the way the cheddar melts into tiny pockets in the biscuits giving every bite extra flavor One snowy winter evening we pulled the hot casserole from the oven and the scent was so tempting nobody waited to sit down before digging in
Storage Tips
Let your casserole cool to room temperature before covering It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days When reheating cover loosely with foil to keep the biscuits soft and warm slices in the oven for about fifteen minutes
Ingredient Substitutions
Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version Use Greek yogurt if you are out of sour cream You can also swap in cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different spin on the sauce
Serving Suggestions
This casserole stands on its own but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans For a twist serve with pickles or a spoonful of tangy relish on the side
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Cultural Context
Biscuit-topped casseroles show up all over American comfort food They are a clever way to stretch ingredients and turn basic pantry staples into a family feast The Cheddar Bay biscuit is an homage to classic flavors served at seafood restaurants but here it adds a cozy twist to a meaty bake
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use another cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for a milder or different flavor profile.
- → How do I know when the biscuits are fully cooked?
The biscuits should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick to check for doneness in the center.
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Prepare the meat and cheese mixture in advance and refrigerate. Add the biscuit topping just before baking for best results.
- → What sides go well with this casserole?
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal's rich flavors.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portions can be cooled, wrapped, and frozen. Reheat in the oven to maintain biscuit texture.