Cheeseburger Casserole: A Comforting Classic for the Whole Family

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the simplicity of a casserole. Cheeseburger Casserole is that perfect meal—it’s comforting, hearty, and packed with cheesy, beefy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Imagine tender macaroni mixed with seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, all cooked in one pot. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again.

Why Cheeseburger Casserole Is a Family Favorite

• Comfort Food at Its Best: All the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cozy, satisfying casserole.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy preparation and cleanup make this a go-to for busy nights.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like pickles, ketchup, or mustard for a personalized twist.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy, savory goodness.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Yellow onion, diced	½ medium (about ¾ to 1 cup)
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	8 ounces (about 2 cups)
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Lean ground beef	1 pound
Granulated garlic	1 ½ teaspoons
Kosher salt	2 teaspoons, divided
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon, divided
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Beef broth	1 (32-ounce) carton (about 4 cups)
Diced tomatoes (with juices)	1 (14.5-ounce) can
Elbow macaroni, dried	12 ounces (about 2 ½ to 3 cups)
Fresh parsley or scallions (optional)	1 tablespoon, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Shred the cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater.

2. Cook the Beef and Onions

• Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
• Add the diced onion and ground beef. Break up the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
• Season with granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 6–7 minutes, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.

3. Build the Base Flavor

• Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the tomato paste to darken slightly and enhance its flavor.

4. Add the Liquids and Pasta

• Pour in 3 ¼ cups of beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Add the dried elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

5. Adjust the Consistency

• If the pasta absorbs all the liquid before becoming tender, add the remaining beef broth a few tablespoons at a time. Remove the pot from the heat once the macaroni is cooked to your liking.

6. Add the Cheese

• Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

7. Top and Melt

• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top.
• Cover the pot and let it sit for 3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

8. Optional Broiling for a Golden Top

• For a browned, bubbly top, transfer the pot to the oven and broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

9. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or scallions over the casserole for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works

• Tomato Paste and Worcestershire Sauce: These ingredients enhance the savory, umami flavors of the casserole.
• Beef Broth: Adds richness and depth to the dish while keeping the pasta tender.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides bold, cheesy flavor that ties everything together.
• One-Pot Cooking: Simplifies the process and makes cleanup a breeze.

Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Casserole

• Choose Lean Ground Beef: Reduces excess grease while still providing plenty of flavor.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent melting smoothly.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the macaroni al dente for the best texture.
• Make It Your Own: Add your favorite burger toppings like pickles, mustard, or even crumbled bacon.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	420
Protein	26g
Carbohydrates	36g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	800mg

FAQs About Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the cheese on top. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat on the stove or in the oven before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like shells, penne, or rotini work well as substitutes.

3. What can I add to make it more like a classic cheeseburger?

Top the casserole with diced pickles, a drizzle of ketchup, or crumbled cooked bacon for an authentic burger experience.

4. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

5. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Why Cheeseburger Casserole Should Be Your Next Meal

This Cheeseburger Casserole is more than just a dinner—it’s a warm, comforting dish that brings people together. With its hearty, cheesy layers and nostalgic flavors, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level.

Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, grab your pot, and enjoy the cheesy, beefy deliciousness of this classic casserole tonight.

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