Imagine all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—juicy beef, melty cheese, savory seasonings—all brought together in one hearty and satisfying dish: Cheeseburger Casserole. It’s everything you love about a burger, but with a fun, family-friendly twist. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck crowd-pleaser, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
Let’s take a deep dive into how you can make this delicious casserole step-by-step, ensuring the perfect mix of flavor, texture, and simplicity.
Why Cheeseburger Casserole Is a Must-Try
You know those meals that everyone at the table loves? Cheeseburger casserole is one of them. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup for you!
Key Benefits:
- Quick and Easy: You’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.
- Family Favorite: Combines all the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger.
- Customizable: Perfect for adding your own twist with extra toppings or mix-ins.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make the ultimate cheeseburger casserole. Each ingredient plays an important role in building the dish’s rich, cheesy, and savory profile.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow onion (diced) | 1/2 medium (about 3/4–1 cup) |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 8 oz, shredded (about 2 cups) |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Lean ground beef | 1 lb |
| Granulated garlic | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Kosher salt | 2 tsp (divided) |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp (divided) |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Beef broth | 32 oz (about 4 cups) |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 14.5 oz, with juices |
| Elbow macaroni (dried) | 12 oz (2 1/2–3 cups) |
| Parsley or scallions | 1 tbsp (optional, for garnish) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Cheeseburger Casserole. From prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfectly melted cheese topping, each step is designed to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Dice the onion and shred the cheddar cheese.
- Gather all the remaining ingredients to ensure you have everything ready to go.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and 1 pound lean ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into small pieces.
- Season with 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 6–7 minutes.
3. Add the Flavor Base
- Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
- Cook for about 1 minute, letting the tomato paste darken slightly to enhance its flavor.
4. Build the Sauce
- Pour in 3 1/4 cups beef broth, followed by the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices).
- Add the remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
5. Cook the Pasta
- Add 12 ounces dried elbow macaroni to the boiling mixture.
- Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender (about 10 minutes).
- If the pasta absorbs all the liquid before it’s tender, add the remaining beef broth, a few tablespoons at a time, as needed.
6. Stir in the Cheese
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Taste the mixture and adjust with more salt or pepper if necessary.
7. Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- For a browned and bubbly topping, transfer the dish to the oven and broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Top with freshly chopped parsley or thinly sliced scallions for a pop of color.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Casserole
- Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it just until tender to avoid mushiness.
- Add Crunchy Toppings: Crumbled bacon or crispy fried onions make excellent additions.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
FAQs About Cheeseburger Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole as instructed, but stop before adding the cheese topping. Refrigerate the dish, then reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding the cheese topping at the end.
2. Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
Yes, it freezes well! Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
3. What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.
4. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
5. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Of course! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work well.
6. Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cheese slightly, or substitute low-sodium broth to make it lighter.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed experience that brings the whole family together. With its quick preparation, customizable options, and irresistible taste, it’s destined to become a regular in your meal rotation.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food. Once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds—guaranteed!