The aroma of a cheeseburger casserole wafts through the air, blending savory beef, gooey cheese, and comforting pasta. Just imagining that first bite makes my mouth water as I anticipate the explosion of flavors and textures.
I vividly remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a cozy game night. The laughter, the cheesy goodness, and the satisfied grins made it a night to remember. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this cheeseburger casserole is bound to impress everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheeseburger casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
- The flavor profile balances rich beefiness with creamy cheese for ultimate satisfaction
- Its visual appeal, with layers of bubbling cheese and colorful toppings, will have everyone reaching for more
- Customize it with your favorite toppings or add extra veggies for versatility in every bite
The last time I served this dish, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for seconds, which is always a win in my book.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep it flavorful without being too greasy during cooking.
Pasta: Any short pasta works well; I prefer elbow macaroni for its perfect bite-sized shape.
Cheddar Cheese: Go for sharp cheddar to elevate the flavor profile; it melts beautifully over everything.
Onion: Finely chopped onions add sweetness and depth; sauté them until they turn golden brown.
Tomato Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for added freshness and flavor balance.
Ketchup: A dollop of ketchup brings a tangy sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
Bread Crumbs: Top with seasoned bread crumbs for an irresistible crunchy texture on top of your casserole.
Pickles (optional): Sliced pickles can be added for an extra zing; they pair surprisingly well with cheesy dishes.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, gather all your ingredients and get ready to assemble this beauty.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the beef mixture.
Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions until no longer pink. Stir occasionally until onions soften and become fragrant.
Add Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and ketchup into the beef mixture. Stir until well combined and let simmer for about 5 minutes so flavors meld together wonderfully.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with the beef sauce mixture. Toss in half of your shredded cheddar cheese to create melty goodness throughout.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour everything into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top along with bread crumbs for that perfect crispy finish.
Bake Until Golden: Place in preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden brown on top.
Enjoying this cheeseburger casserole fresh from the oven is an experience like no other! Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable meal anyone will love.
So grab those ingredients, channel your inner chef, and let’s dive into this cheesy adventure together!
You Must Know
- This cheeseburger casserole is a one-pan wonder that combines all your burger favorites into a creamy, cheesy delight
- With its savory aroma wafting through the kitchen, it promises to be a family favorite and makes cleanup a breeze
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning your ground beef, then combine with pasta and sauce for a harmonious blend of flavors. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and melds together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting and personalized to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through to enjoy every cheesy bite again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for an unbeatable melt and flavor
- Don’t skip on seasoning; it enhances the dish immensely
- Always taste as you go to balance flavors properly
Cooking this cheeseburger casserole reminds me of family game nights when everyone would gather around, eyes glued to the table, eagerly waiting for their plate of cheesy goodness.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta in cheeseburger casserole?
Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber to your meal.
How can I make cheeseburger casserole spicier?
Add jalapeños or hot sauce to give it that extra kick of heat.
Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
Absolutely! It freezes well; just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.
Cheesy Cheeseburger Casserole
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Cheesy Cheeseburger Casserole, where savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and tender pasta come together for a memorable family meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this one-pan delight is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Customize it with your favorite toppings for an added twist!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- Optional: Sliced pickles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef with chopped onion over medium heat until cooked through.
- Stir in tomato sauce and ketchup; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture and half the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish; top with remaining cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
