Cheeseburger Casserole
Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food
A comforting and delicious twist on a classic cheeseburger, this casserole is perfect for family dinners.
This Cheeseburger Casserole is a family favorite, combining the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a hearty and satisfying dish. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory cheeseburger flavor in every bite
- Simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- A comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy
A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Cheeseburger casserole is more than just a meal; it's a nostalgic dish that brings the comfort of childhood favorites right to your dinner table. This hearty casserole combines all the elements of a classic cheeseburger into one delicious, easy-to-serve dish. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to make everyone feel at home.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. Not only can it be prepared in advance, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights, but it also caters to a range of taste preferences. Feel free to customize the ingredients by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping in different types of cheese to suit your family’s palate.
Quick and Easy Preparation
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be challenging. This cheeseburger casserole recipe is designed for simplicity without sacrificing flavor. With just one skillet and a few straightforward steps, you can have a delicious dinner ready in under an hour. It's the perfect solution for those evenings when you want something satisfying but don't have a lot of time to cook.
Moreover, the use of everyday ingredients means you likely already have most of what you need in your pantry. This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also helps to reduce food waste, making it an eco-conscious choice for your family meals.
Perfect for Leftovers
One of the best aspects of this cheeseburger casserole is that it makes fantastic leftovers. If you find yourself with extra portions, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delightful the next day. Reheating is a breeze—just pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and you'll have a quick meal ready to enjoy again.
Additionally, this casserole can be frozen for longer storage. After it cools, cut it into portions and wrap it tightly for future meals. This way, you can always have a comforting dish on hand for those nights when cooking feels like too much.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients well before transferring to the baking dish.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, garlic powder, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
Assemble the Casserole
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheeseburger casserole!
Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time, as it will be starting from a cold state.
What can I serve with cheeseburger casserole? This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You could also serve it with pickles or coleslaw for a classic burger experience.
Tips for Success
To enhance the flavor of your cheeseburger casserole, consider adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the beef and onions. These vegetables not only add texture but also contribute to a more complex flavor profile.
Always taste and adjust the seasoning before combining all the ingredients. Depending on personal preference, you may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter option.
→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and simply bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute with any cheese you prefer, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cheeseburger Casserole
A comforting and delicious twist on a classic cheeseburger, this casserole is perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Family Favorite Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
Stir in the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, garlic powder, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheeseburger casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g