Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty, satisfying dish that captures all the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger, but in warm, bubbly casserole form. Made with ground beef, pasta, cheese, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this meal is comforting, easy to make, and sure to please the entire family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect one-pan comfort meal
• Ideal for busy weeknights and make-ahead prep
• Kid-friendly and customizable
• Great for leftovers and meal planning
• Loaded with cheesy, savory flavor in every bite

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Yellow onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Elbow macaroni
• Tomato paste
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Dijon mustard
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional toppings: pickles, bacon bits, green onions

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let flavors combine.
6. Mix the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar into the beef mixture.
7. Pour everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or lean beef and add chopped veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
• Low-Carb: Substitute the pasta with cauliflower florets.
• Cheeseburger Deluxe: Top with shredded lettuce, diced pickles, or a drizzle of ketchup before serving.

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Definitely. Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers in individual portions.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and double-check all other ingredients for hidden gluten.

What toppings go well with cheeseburger casserole?

Pickles, bacon bits, green onions, or a squirt of ketchup or mustard add great flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers are great additions.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can substitute with yellow mustard or leave it out for a more classic taste.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Don’t overbake it, and cover with foil when reheating to retain moisture.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Casserole is a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as simple to prepare as it is comforting. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, it’s rich, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers all the satisfying flavors of your favorite cheeseburger—no grill required.

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