Cheeseburger Casserole: A Comfort Food Favorite You’ll Love

When you think of comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming, cheesy goodness of a Cheeseburger Casserole. Combining the savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender pasta and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this mouthwatering dish and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Casserole

Imagine all the best parts of a cheeseburger—the juicy beef, melted cheese, and savory seasonings—layered with tender pasta and baked to perfection. This dish delivers:

• Comforting Flavors: Familiar and satisfying, it’s like a warm hug in casserole form.
• Easy Prep: Simple ingredients and minimal effort make it a weeknight hero.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: Picky eaters love its cheesy, beefy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Dried elbow macaroni	12 oz (340g)	About 6 cups of dry pasta.
Ground beef	1 ½ lbs	Use 80:20 for flavor without too much grease.
Oregano	2 teaspoons	Adds a herbaceous note.
Sea salt	1 teaspoon	Plus more for salting pasta water.
Black pepper	1 teaspoon	Adjust to taste.
Chili powder	1 teaspoon	Adds mild heat and depth.
Ground cumin	1 teaspoon	Enhances the savory flavor.
Butter	2 teaspoons	For sautéing aromatics.
Yellow onion (chopped)	½ cup	Adds sweetness and depth.
Garlic (minced)	1 tablespoon	Enhances the savory base.
Tomato puree	¼ cup	Brings a tangy, rich flavor.
Heavy cream	1 ½ cups	Creates a luscious, creamy sauce.
Chicken stock	¼ cup	Adds depth and balances the sauce.
Dried parsley	½ teaspoon	Optional, for extra herb flavor.
Dried basil	½ teaspoon	Complements the Italian seasonings.
Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)	2 cups	Divided, for sauce and topping.
Cheddar cheese (shredded)	2 cups	Divided, for sauce and topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil (use 1 tablespoon of salt for every 2 quarts of water).
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 9–11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

1. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and season it with oregano, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, and ground cumin.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add 2 teaspoons of butter to the skillet with the beef.
2. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and tomato puree, stirring to combine. Cook for 1 minute.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken stock, parsley, basil, and 1 ½ cups each of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese.
2. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Combine the Pasta and Beef Mixture

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture.
2. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

6. Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish (no need to grease).
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, spreading it evenly.

7. Bake the Casserole

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
2. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Salt the Pasta Water: Properly salted water is essential for flavorful pasta.
2. Use Quality Cheese: Shredding your own cheese from a block ensures better melting.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
4. Customize the Flavor: Add diced pickles, mustard, or bacon for a cheeseburger-inspired twist.
5. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for some heat.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450–500
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	25–30g
Fat	25g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	700–800mg

Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Casserole

Pair this hearty dish with simple sides to round out your meal:

• Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing side balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great options.

FAQs About Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works well.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken stock and seasonings are gluten-free.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

4. Can I freeze Cheeseburger Casserole?

Yes! Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

5. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch for a lighter option.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

Why Cheeseburger Casserole is a Family Favorite

This dish combines everything you love about a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of a baked pasta casserole. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Plus, it’s a great way to use pantry staples and stretch ground beef into a filling, satisfying meal.

Conclusion: Try Cheeseburger Casserole Tonight

Ready to elevate your dinner game? Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a household favorite. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and savory beef, it’s a meal that brings everyone back for seconds.

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