Cheeseburger Casserole

If you’re craving the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but want the ease of a one-dish meal, this Cheeseburger Casserole is just what you need! It’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with hearty ground beef, pasta, and all your favorite burger toppings—baked to bubbly perfection. A family favorite that’s quick enough for weeknights and comforting enough for the weekend.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Pot Comfort – Everything you love about a cheeseburger in a cozy casserole dish.
Kid-Friendly – A hit with little ones thanks to the cheesy, meaty goodness.
Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have.
Great for Meal Prep – Makes a generous batch perfect for leftovers.
Customizable – Add your favorite burger toppings for a fun twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Toppings (for serving):

• Pickle slices
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
• Extra ketchup or mustard drizzle

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing spoons
• Cheese grater
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

Step 2: Add the Tomato Base
5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
6. Add the diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Stir in the Pasta
8. Add the uncooked macaroni directly into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
9. Simmer gently for about 6-7 minutes, just to begin softening the pasta (it will finish cooking in the oven).
10. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
11. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
12. Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
13. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
14. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
15. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
16. For a golden cheesy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
17. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
18. Garnish with pickle slices, chopped parsley, or green onions.
19. Serve with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole
Use Lean Ground Beef – This keeps the casserole from becoming too greasy.
Pre-Cook the Pasta Slightly – This ensures it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
Customize the Cheese – Add pepper jack for spice or use American cheese for that classic burger flavor.
Double the Recipe – It’s freezer-friendly and great for batch cooking.
Let It Rest – Just a few minutes after baking helps the casserole set for clean slicing.

Serving Suggestions
Classic Diner Vibes – Serve with French fries or potato wedges.
Lighter Fare – Pair with a green salad with vinaigrette.
Burger Bar – Let everyone top their slice with lettuce, tomato, or even crushed chips.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly or portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 60-second intervals until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
   Yes! Both are leaner options and work well with the same seasonings.
2. Is this casserole spicy?
   Not at all. But if you like heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Absolutely. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
4. What can I use instead of macaroni?
   Any short pasta like penne, shells, or rotini will work beautifully.

Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Casserole delivers everything you love about a classic burger—savory meat, melty cheese, tangy condiments, and soft pasta—all baked into one irresistible dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this comforting meal is sure to bring smiles to the table. It’s easy, satisfying, and always a hit with the whole family.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your photos and tips in the comments—happy cooking!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 610mg

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