Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a meal that's hearty, cheesy, and filled with all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger? Look no further! This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe has everything you love about a burger—ground beef, cheese, pickles, onions, and more—served in a deliciously warm, baked dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're planning a family dinner, a potluck, or just want a satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Read on for the ultimate cheeseburger casserole recipe and don’t miss out on the tips, variations, and serving suggestions that will take this dish to the next level!

What Is Cheeseburger Casserole?

Cheeseburger casserole is a delightful mashup of two comfort food classics: the all-American cheeseburger and the hearty casserole. This dish combines all the best cheeseburger ingredients—seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, tomatoes, and even pickles—in a single casserole that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavor of a cheeseburger without the hassle of grilling or assembling individual burgers. Plus, it's easy to customize and perfect for feeding a hungry family or crowd.

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious cheeseburger casserole. These ingredients are easy to find and probably already in your kitchen:

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups elbow macaroni or any other small pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: pickles, chopped lettuce, chopped tomatoes, or bacon bits

Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Casserole (Optional Add-ins)

Want to add a bit more excitement to your cheeseburger casserole? These optional add-ins will bring some additional textures and flavors to the dish:

• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• ¼ cup chopped pickles (for a tangy, authentic cheeseburger flavor)
• ¼ cup diced jalapeños for a spicy kick
• 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce (for a smoky, sweet flavor)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (if you prefer a bit of heat)
• ¼ cup sour cream or mayonnaise for extra creaminess

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about cheeseburger casserole is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary preferences or use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Meat: You can replace ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian version.
• Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, American cheese, or even a bit of sharp Parmesan for added depth.
• Pasta: Elbow macaroni is a traditional choice, but you can use any pasta you like. Shells, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta will work perfectly.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and make sure to check that your Worcestershire sauce and other condiments are gluten-free if needed.
• Low Carb: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can skip the pasta altogether and use cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles as a base instead.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this cheeseburger casserole is simple, and with just a few easy steps, you'll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your elbow macaroni (or chosen pasta) and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

• While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

• Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth (or water). Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in half of the shredded cheese and mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Let It Rest

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut into portions.

How to Cook Cheeseburger Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by prepping your ingredients—dice the onions, mince the garlic, cook the pasta, and shred the cheese. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat for a less greasy casserole.
3. Flavor Boost: Add your flavorings—tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and broth—and let everything simmer so the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Combine: Mix the beef mixture with your cooked pasta and part of the cheese for extra creaminess.
5. Bake: Pour the mixture into your baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, and overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Not Draining the Beef Fat: Failing to drain excess fat from the cooked beef can make your casserole greasy. Take a minute to drain it before adding the other ingredients.
• Too Much Liquid: If you add too much broth or don’t drain the tomatoes well, the casserole can become watery. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up, making it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cheeseburger Casserole

• Serve this casserole family-style, directly from the baking dish. You can add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
• For a true cheeseburger experience, serve with your favorite toppings like pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of mustard and ketchup.
• Consider offering a basket of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the flavorful sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Casserole

• Add a pop of color by sprinkling some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro over the top before serving.
• Serve each portion on a colorful plate and garnish with a few pickle slices or cherry tomatoes to give it that classic cheeseburger vibe.
• You could also top individual servings with crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream for a richer finish.

Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
• Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a large group or want leftovers, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in two dishes.
• Cheese Lovers: If you’re a big fan of cheese, feel free to add an extra cup of cheese into the beef mixture or sprinkle more on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, simply cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, just reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I make cheeseburger casserole without pasta?
A: Yes! You can swap the pasta for a lower-carb option like cauliflower florets, zucchini noodles, or even cooked quinoa if you prefer.

Q: How can I make this cheeseburger casserole healthier?
A: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole-wheat pasta, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content.

Q: What side dishes go well with cheeseburger casserole?
A: A crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with the richness of the casserole. You could also serve it with sweet potato fries for a fun twist.

Conclusion

This cheeseburger casserole recipe is a comforting, family-friendly meal that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into one easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing dinner for your family, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With endless variations, easy substitutions, and make-ahead options, it’s a versatile dish that you’ll come back to time and again. Try it out today and enjoy a hearty, cheesy, and delicious meal that everyone will love!

Print