Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Cheeseburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in one hearty, baked dish. This simple, crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Packed with tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a cheesy topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

In this post, you’ll find a detailed guide to making the perfect cheeseburger casserole, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the taste of a cheeseburger to your dinner table in casserole form!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe is ready in under an hour, including prep and cooking time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, beefy flavors that mimic a cheeseburger.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to your liking with different cheese, pasta, or seasoning options.
• Hearty and Filling: With pasta, beef, and a rich cheese topping, this casserole is a complete meal that will satisfy even the biggest appetites.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb lean ground beef – The star of the dish, providing a rich, meaty base.
• 1 medium onion (diced finely) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the other ingredients.
• ½ tsp ground black pepper – For a mild kick of heat.
• 2 tsp minced garlic – Gives the casserole a flavorful, savory punch.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the beef and tomato sauce.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Enhances the garlic flavor.
• ½ tsp chili powder – Adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Brings a rich, umami taste that enhances the meat.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Adds tanginess and thickens the sauce.
• 1 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes – Provides moisture and a fresh tomato flavor.
• 2 cups water – Helps cook the pasta directly in the casserole.
• 3 cubes beef bouillon – Concentrated beef flavor to deepen the taste of the casserole.
• 2 cups large elbow macaroni (dried) – The pasta of choice, which holds the sauce well.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
• ¼ cup whole milk – Loosens the mixture and adds more creaminess.
• 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded) – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy top layer.
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded) – Brings a sharp, bold cheese flavor.
• 1 tbsp dried parsley – Adds a pop of color and light herbal flavor to finish the dish.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• 9×13 glass baking dish
• Microwave (to dissolve bouillon cubes)
• Oven

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Broth

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of water and 3 beef bouillon cubes. Microwave on high for about 4 minutes or until the bouillon cubes are completely dissolved. Set the broth aside.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain the excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.

3. Add the Seasonings

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion, 1 tsp of salt, ½ tsp of black pepper, 2 tsp of minced garlic, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and ½ tsp of chili powder. Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the seasonings. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.

4. Build the Sauce

Stir in 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp of tomato paste, and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Mix everything together, making sure the tomato paste is fully incorporated.

5. Cook the Pasta

Add the dried elbow macaroni directly into the beef mixture, followed by the beef bouillon broth. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is submerged. Cover the skillet and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Uncover, stir, and cover again, allowing it to simmer for another 5 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

6. Add the Dairy

Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in 1 cup of sour cream and ¼ cup of whole milk. This will make the casserole creamy and rich, giving it that classic comfort food texture.

7. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour half of the beef and pasta mixture into a 9×13 glass baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese (half of each) on top.

8. Layer and Bake

Add the remaining beef and pasta mixture on top of the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the sides of the casserole are bubbling and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

9. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, sprinkle 1 tbsp of dried parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni until just tender, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Forgetting to drain the beef: Skipping this step can leave excess grease in the casserole, making it too oily.
• Skipping the cheese layering: Layering the cheese ensures an even distribution of flavor and gooeyness in every bite.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle extra parsley or a dash of hot sauce for those who like a bit of spice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for a unique flavor twist.
• Swap the pasta: Use shells, penne, or rigatoni if you prefer a different type of pasta.
• Add vegetables: For a healthier option, mix in some spinach, peas, or bell peppers with the beef.

FAQs About Cheeseburger Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe without sacrificing flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and make sure your beef bouillon and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe Tips

• For a creamier texture, increase the amount of sour cream by ¼ cup.
• Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
• If you want to add extra flavor, toss in some crispy bacon bits as a garnish.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Serve your cheeseburger casserole with a fresh, crunchy green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or

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