Description
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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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
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1 cup beef broth
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp ketchup
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2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Toppings (for serving):
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Pickle slices
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Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
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Extra ketchup or mustard drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Aromatics
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
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Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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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.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: American