Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

There’s something magical about a dish that combines the comfort of a cheeseburger with the ease of a casserole. Picture this: gooey cheese melting over savory ground beef, tangy ketchup, and mustard mingling with tender pasta. This cheeseburger casserole recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you back to carefree summer barbecues, family gatherings, or cozy movie nights in your living room. For more inspiration, check out this easy lunch recipes recipe.

Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone in the house abandon their screens and gravitate toward the oven like moths to a flame. This dish is perfect for any occasion—be it a casual weeknight dinner or an epic game day feast—and I promise you’ll be dreaming of its cheesy goodness long after it’s gone. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dinner ideas recipe.

I still remember the first time I made this for my family. Their delighted faces said it all when they took their first bites—this recipe has become a staple in our home ever since.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balance between flavor and healthiness; it makes for a great base.
• Elbow Macaroni: These small pasta shapes hold sauce beautifully and add texture to each bite.
• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for that irresistible cheesy flavor that melts perfectly throughout the casserole.
• Ketchup: A classic condiment that adds sweetness and tang; opt for organic if you can find it.
• Mustard: Adds a zingy kick; yellow mustard works well, but feel free to get creative with spicy varieties.
• Onion: Chopped onions create an aromatic foundation; sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant for the best flavor.
• Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle elevates the whole dish with aromatic warmth; fresh garlic is also an option if you prefer.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skip these!
• Breadcrumbs: Optional topping for crunch; use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor or leave them out for a softer finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your casserole cooks evenly and comes out bubbly and golden.

Cook the Pasta: Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. You want them firm enough to hold their shape amidst all that cheesy goodness.

Sauté Ground Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned while adding chopped onions halfway through. The onions should turn translucent and sweeten as they soften.

Add Sauces and Seasoning: Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture. Let simmer for about five minutes—this allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat mixture and half of your cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is coated in saucy goodness.

Bake Your Casserole: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.

And voilà! Your cheeseburger casserole is ready to serve. The moment you pull it out of the oven will be monumental—those bubbling edges will have you drooling!

Once you’ve enjoyed this delightful creation hot out of the oven, don’t be surprised if it’s requested again next week! Share with friends or keep it all to yourself—it’s totally up to you!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with onions until fragrant, then mix in seasonings before layering with pasta and cheese. This sequence ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even plant-based options. Toss in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, maintaining its cheesy goodness.

Sharing this cheeseburger casserole recipe with friends led to an impromptu potluck where everyone went back for seconds—because who can resist gooey cheese and savory meat?

FAQ

Can I make this cheeseburger casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for ground beef in this recipe?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils work wonderfully as alternatives.

How do I prevent my casserole from becoming too dry?

Adding enough broth or sauce will keep it moist during baking.

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Cheeseburger Casserole

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Cheeseburger Casserole is a delightful fusion of beloved burger flavors and comforting casserole ease. This one-pan wonder features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a savory ground beef mixture, all topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners or game day feasts, this dish brings the family together for a cozy meal filled with nostalgia. With its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef; add chopped onion halfway through cooking until translucent.
4. Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta with meat mixture and half of the cheddar cheese; mix well.
6. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for lighter options. Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Cool slightly before serving to avoid overly hot cheesy pockets.