If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying meal that brings all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, creamy bake, then this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender pasta, juicy seasoned ground beef, and a luscious blend of cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. Every bite bursts with familiar, comforting flavors but in a whole new format that’s both fun and easy to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a heartwarming dinner, this casserole delivers in spades and quickly earns a spot as a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe calls for simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a specific role in layering textures, tastes, and colors to create a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward to make.
- 12 oz. dry elbow macaroni: Perfect for holding creamy cheese and meaty sauce, any short pasta shape works well here.
- 1½ lbs. ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio): This ratio keeps the beef juicy and flavorful without drying out during baking.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the savory beef base.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Provides a rich umami kick that balances the creaminess, ketchup can be swapped for a sweeter touch.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the meat mixture with fragrant warmth and complexity.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that brightens the dish with earthy, herbaceous notes.
- 1 tsp chili powder: Adds just a whisper of smoky heat to deepen the flavor profile.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances and brings all the flavors to life.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Adds mild spice and balances the richness.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly creamy texture that hugs every pasta piece.
- ¼ cup beef broth: Adds moisture and deep, meaty flavor without watering down the dish.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Offers sharpness and melty goodness that defines the casserole.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Brings gooey stretch and mild creaminess to complement the cheddar.
- 1 tsp sliced green onion (optional for garnish): Adds a fresh, crisp finish and beautiful color contrast.
How to Make Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s ready to create that delicious crust. Lightly grease your baking dish to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick and cleans up easily after you’ve enjoyed every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil your elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water, following the package’s cooking time. Properly cooked pasta should be tender yet firm enough to hold up during baking. Once done, drain it well and set aside to keep the texture just right.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and diced onion. Use a spoon to break the beef apart as it cooks, until the meat is fully browned and the onions turn translucent. This step locks in flavor and ensures a deliciously hearty base for your casserole.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Let this mixture cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly, deepening the flavor and making it savory and robust.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Creamy Ingredients
Add the drained pasta back into the skillet along with the heavy cream, beef broth, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix everything together so the creamy cheese starts to melt slightly and all the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 6: Bake Your Casserole
Transfer the cheesy beef and pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella on top for that irresistible golden crust. Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes to allow everything to heat through, then uncover for another 5 minutes or broil briefly for a beautifully browned surface.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Top it with sliced green onions if you like a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich casserole. Then dive in!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions add a wonderful pop of color and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. If you want to switch things up, a sprinkle of pickles or fresh diced tomatoes can also lend a fresh bite reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple so the casserole shines. A crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans bring freshness and balance the meal. For extra comfort, garlic bread or toasted buns on the side echo that burger vibe perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy dinner gathering. Or get creative by scooping portions into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation that’s perfect for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making it just as tasty the next day if not more.
Freezing
This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. For a quick fix, microwave on medium power in intervals, stirring if possible, until hot. Reheating gently helps preserve the creamy, cheesy texture you love.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pasta with something gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta varieties in this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.
What other cheeses work well besides cheddar and mozzarella?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a bit of smoked gouda for a unique twist. Each adds a different flavor dimension while keeping the dish wonderfully melty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to capture the hearty texture. Adding a bit more seasoning can boost the overall flavor as well.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Definitely. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
How spicy is this casserole? Can I adjust the heat?
The chili powder provides a mild warmth without overwhelming heat. You can reduce or omit it to suit milder tastes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want to turn up the spice.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic, perfect for those nights when you want a meal that feels like a big warm hug. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to please kids and adults alike. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—once you do, it may just become your go-to dinner for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.
Print
Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting and indulgent baked pasta dish combining seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheeses. Perfect for an easy family dinner, it features elbow macaroni cooked al dente and mixed with a savory blend of tomato paste, garlic, Italian seasoning, and chili powder. Topped with shredded cheddar and mozzarella, this casserole bakes to a bubbly, golden perfection and is garnished with fresh green onions for a touch of brightness.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz. dry elbow macaroni (or any short shaped pasta will work)
Meat and Vegetables
- 1½ lbs. ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (ketchup also works though it’s sweeter)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
Liquids and Cheese
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Garnish
- 1 tsp sliced green onion (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together. Break up the beef with a spoon until it is no longer pink and the onion appears translucent.
- Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the tomato paste has darkened.
- Combine Pasta and Cream: Add the drained pasta, heavy cream, beef broth, 1 cup of shredded cheddar, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish or leave it in the oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes. Then uncover and bake or broil for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly crust.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired for added flavor and color.
Notes
- You can substitute elbow macaroni with any short pasta like penne or rotini.
- Ketchup can be used instead of tomato paste if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- Use an 80/20 beef ratio for the right balance of flavor and moisture.
- If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or water can be used as a substitute.
- Cover the casserole while baking to retain moisture and uncover for the last few minutes to brown the cheese topping.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the chili powder.
