Irresistible Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Imagine a dish that combines the juicy, savory goodness of a cheeseburger with the comforting embrace of a casserole. Yes, you guessed it right—it’s the incredible cheeseburger casserole! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, with layers of ground beef, melted cheese, and pasta coming together in perfect harmony. The aroma wafting from your oven will have everyone asking what’s cooking and racing to the dinner table.

Now picture this: you’ve had a long day at work, and all you want is something delicious but easy to whip up. Enter the cheeseburger casserole—a true lifesaver that not only fills hungry bellies but also brings back nostalgic memories of backyard barbecues and family gatherings. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging on your own after a long day.

There was one time I made this dish for game night with friends; their delighted reactions were priceless as they dug into seconds and thirds. It turned out to be the star of the evening!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease without sacrificing flavor; turkey is a great healthier alternative too.

• Pasta: I prefer elbow macaroni for its perfect bite-sized shape that holds sauce well.

• Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for an extra zing of flavor that complements the beef beautifully.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned or fresh, these add moisture and brightness to balance the richness.

• Onion: A small chopped onion enhances the overall flavor profile; sauté until translucent for best results.

• Bell Pepper: Any color works; it adds sweetness and crunch to contrast with the meat.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs are essential; feel free to adjust according to taste.

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the dish.

• Breadcrumbs (optional): For those who love a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs before baking for added texture.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish so nothing sticks during our cheesy adventure.

Sauté Vegetables and Brown Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until soft. Add ground beef; cook until browned and crumbly.

Add Pasta and Tomatoes: Stir in cooked pasta along with diced tomatoes and seasonings. Mix well until everything is coated in flavor.

Pour in Broth and Cheese: Pour beef broth over the mixture, allowing it to soak into every nook. Fold in shredded cheese, saving some for later.

Transfer Mixture to Baking Dish: Carefully pour everything into your greased baking dish. Spread evenly so each bite gets equal love.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top—enjoy watching that cheese melt gloriously!

Now take a moment while it bakes—sip on your favorite drink or dance around your kitchen like no one’s watching! You deserve it after whipping up such an amazing meal.

Enjoy this cheeseburger casserole straight from the oven or let it cool slightly before serving. Either way, get ready for compliments galore!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with onions, then layer the ingredients before baking for optimal flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to personalize it.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Sharing this cheeseburger casserole with my friends led to a lively debate over who makes the best homemade burgers. Their laughter filled my kitchen, and I knew I had created something special.

FAQ

Can I use other meats for cheeseburger casserole?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes for a lighter option.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can cheeseburger casserole be frozen?

Absolutely! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months for quick meals.

Print

Cheeseburger Casserole

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of cheeseburger casserole, where the savory goodness of ground beef meets the creamy embrace of melted cheese and tender pasta. This dish is a perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a quick, satisfying meal that evokes memories of backyard barbecues. With its golden cheese topping and customizable ingredients, this casserole will impress both kids and adults alike. Gather your loved ones around the dinner table for a heartwarming experience that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft. Add ground beef; cook until browned.
3. Stir in cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour in beef broth and fold in half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer mixture to baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
6. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or add favorite vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days or frozen for up to three months.