The Best Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

One evening, I was craving a cheeseburger but didn’t feel like dealing with the mess of grilling or frying patties. I wanted something warm, cheesy, and comforting that I could throw together in one dish. That’s when I decided to make a cheeseburger casserole.

This recipe combines everything you love about a cheeseburger—seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and pasta—into an easy, baked dish. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd.

Servings	Total
4	25mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first made cheeseburger casserole when I was trying to use up some leftover ground beef and pasta. I threw in some cheese, added a few seasonings, and baked it all together. It turned out to be a hit, and now it’s one of my family’s favorite meals.

Why Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger casserole is a great option because it’s comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavor. It’s also budget-friendly since it uses simple pantry ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the taste of a cheeseburger without the hassle of cooking individual patties.

What Is Cheeseburger Casserole Made Of?

This dish is made with basic ingredients that come together for a delicious, cheesy casserole:

• Ground beef
• Pasta (such as elbow macaroni or rotini)
• Onion and garlic
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes
• Cheddar cheese
• Worcestershire sauce
• Mustard (for that classic cheeseburger flavor)
• Salt, pepper, and seasonings

What to Have with Cheeseburger Casserole

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce.
• Side salad: A crisp green salad helps balance the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots make a great side.

Is Cheeseburger Casserole Healthy?

Cheeseburger casserole is a hearty meal, but you can make it lighter by using lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more nutrients.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni or rotini pasta
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Onion and Garlic:
   • Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
   • Let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
   • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• For extra cheesiness, mix some cheese into the beef and pasta before baking.
• Add diced pickles or bacon bits for even more cheeseburger flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner option.

2. Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger casserole is a fun and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a simple baked dish. It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy!

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