Description
Craving all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cozy, cheesy, oven-baked form? This Cheeseburger Casserole delivers just that! It’s a family-friendly favorite packed with ground beef, melty cheese, pasta, and savory seasonings—all baked into one bubbling, golden dish. It’s comforting, easy to make, and always a hit at the dinner table.
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Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or beef blend)
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tbsp ketchup
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika (optional)
2 cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 cup milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Fresh parsley or chopped pickles for garnish (optional)
Olive oil or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil macaroni in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the meat is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
Add garlic, tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and milk to the meat mixture. Stir to combine.
Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar and stir until melted into the mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the cooked pasta and beef sauce.
Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or pickles if you like that classic burger vibe.
Notes
Use Lean Ground Beef – Less grease, more flavor
Don’t Overcook Pasta – Slightly al dente is best before baking
Add Pickle Juice – A splash adds zing to the meat mixture
Make It Spicy – Toss in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick
Use Different Cheeses – Monterey Jack or American-style cheese blend works great
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American