Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Get ready to meet your new go-to comfort food dinner: Easy Cheeseburger Casserole! This irresistible, ultra-cheesy skillet bake serves up all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger – savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, hearty noodles, and plenty of melty cheese – in one crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or looking for a quick weeknight fix, this casserole is guaranteed to earn rave reviews at the table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is just how straightforward (but flavor-packed!) the ingredient list is. Each component plays a key role, from adding creamy richness to bringing out the savory “burger” taste you crave. Here’s what you’ll need and why.

• Ground Beef: Brings rich, savory depth; you can use lean or regular, as the little bit of fat adds flavor.
• Onion: Diced for a subtle sweetness and aroma that melds into the casserole base.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for that unmistakable savory kick.
• Salt: Essential to bring out every delicious flavor in the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds just the right touch of gentle heat and earthiness.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
• Diced Tomatoes: Keep things juicy, tangy, and bright—don’t drain them!
• Beef Broth: Lends savory depth and is key for cooking the macaroni right in the skillet.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient gives a hit of umami, tying everything together.
• Elbow Macaroni: A classic pasta that cooks up perfectly in the sauce, ready to soak up every last bit.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded and divided, it delivers the ooey-gooey melt on top and in every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For that stretchy, bubbly finish on top—casserole magic!
• Chopped Parsley: (Optional) A sprinkle over the top adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven set over medium heat, add the ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with your spoon or spatula, letting it brown evenly. This foundational step lets all those savory flavors build from the very start.

Step 2: Soften Onion and Garlic

Add your finely diced onion to the browned beef and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the minced garlic next, then add the salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Give everything a quick stir and cook for another minute—this will let the aromatics bloom and the tomato paste caramelize beautifully.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Next, pour in the can of undrained diced tomatoes and the beef broth. For a touch of classic burger flavor, splash in the Worcestershire sauce. The mixture will already smell amazing, but now you’ll want to bring it to a low simmer, allowing all the ingredients to come together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir the uncooked elbow macaroni right into the simmering sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10–12 minutes. The pasta will soak up all the beefy, tomato-rich flavor as it becomes perfectly tender.

Step 5: Get Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked through, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in one and a half cups of the shredded cheddar cheese—watch as it melts right into the bubbling sauce, making the mixture irresistibly creamy and cheesy.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye out for that bubbly, golden crown of cheese—it’s a sure sign it’s time to dig in!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. If you’re feeling fancy, add a handful of chopped parsley for color and a fresh note. That’s it—your Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is ready to serve!

How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Casserole

Garnishes

A scatter of chopped parsley across the top is classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Pickle slices, a drizzle of ketchup, or even a dusting of extra black pepper can really underline the cheeseburger theme and add eye appeal. A simple garnish goes a long way toward making this comfort food look as special as it tastes!

Side Dishes

Since Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is hearty and cheesy, lighter sides work well—think crisp green salads, roasted broccoli, or even a quick slaw for freshness and crunch. For an all-out comfort feast, add homemade fries or tater tots, and maybe a tangy dill pickle spear.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make it even more fun? Try spooning individual portions into ramekins for a personal touch, or set out topping options like diced tomato, chopped onion, and shredded lettuce for a “build-your-own-cheeseburger” casserole bar. Kids especially love treating their serving like a classic burger with all the fixings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Easy Cheeseburger Casserole keep beautifully. Just transfer cooled casserole into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making day-after servings extra delicious.

Freezing

Planning to make this casserole ahead for busy nights? After baking and cooling, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months—perfect for future cravings. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts, stirring as needed. If things look a little dry, just splash in a tablespoon of beef broth or water.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Any short noodles like shells, rotini, or penne will work well in this recipe. Just watch the cooking time, as some shapes may need a minute more or less to reach perfect tenderness.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar brings the ideal sharp cheesy flavor, while mozzarella gives you that lovely melt and stretch. Feel free to substitute Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack for a twist, or add a sprinkle of American cheese for authentic cheeseburger vibes.

Can I make Easy Cheeseburger Casserole with ground turkey?

Definitely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and still soaks up all the saucy, cheesy goodness. You might want to add a little extra salt or seasoning since turkey is milder than beef.

How can I make this casserole taste even more like a cheeseburger?

For a retro burger-shop flair, toss in chopped dill pickles before baking or drizzle ketchup and mustard on top just before serving. Some folks even add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for fun!

Does Easy Cheeseburger Casserole work for meal prep?

Yes indeed! Make a double batch and portion it into containers for a week’s worth of speedy, satisfying lunches or dinners—this dish reheats so easily and keeps its hearty appeal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that wins over picky kids and grownups alike, look no further than Easy Cheeseburger Casserole. It’s a classic for a reason: simple ingredients, so much cheese, and all the nostalgic burger flavors in every bite. Try it tonight—you’ll see just how quickly it becomes a family favorite.

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