Description

Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the cheesy, beefy goodness of a classic cheeseburger into a one-pot dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

½ medium yellow onion, diced
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 ½ teaspoons granulated garlic
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
½ teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 (32-ounce) carton beef broth (about 4 cups)
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
12 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 ½ to 3 cups)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or scallions (optional, finely chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the onion into small, uniform pieces and shred the cheddar cheese using a box grater.
Cook the Beef and Onions
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and ground beef, breaking the beef into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook for 6–7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
Build the Base Flavor
Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute to darken the tomato paste and enhance the flavor.
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 salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Add the dried elbow macaroni, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Adjust the Consistency
If the pasta absorbs all the liquid before becoming tender, add the remaining beef broth in small splashes. Remove from heat once the pasta is cooked to your liking.
Add the Cheese
Stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Top and Melt
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top. Cover the pot and let it sit for 3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Optional Broiling for a Golden Top
For a golden, bubbly top, transfer the pot to the oven and broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley or scallions for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Choose Lean Ground Beef: This reduces the excess grease while still maintaining plenty of flavor.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may contain additives that affect the meltability.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep the macaroni al dente for the best texture in the casserole.
Make It Your Own: Top the casserole with your favorite burger toppings like pickles, mustard, or crumbled bacon for an authentic burger experience.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop, Broiling
Cuisine: American