Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best
If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers and casseroles, you’re going to love this dish. Cheeseburger casserole combines the best of both worlds: juicy beef, melty cheese, and all the familiar flavors of a classic cheeseburger, but in casserole form. It’s a simple, filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to feed a crowd without much effort. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or egg noodles)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus 1 cup for topping)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole will cook evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. You can use elbow macaroni, egg noodles, or whatever pasta you prefer.
3. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Make the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, ketchup, mustard, and pickles (if using). Stir everything together, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake
Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and melted.
7. Add Toppings
If you’re using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a nice crunch and extra flavor. For a pop of color, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top once it’s done baking.
Serving
Serve this casserole hot, and don’t forget the condiments! A side of extra ketchup and mustard makes it feel even more like an actual cheeseburger. You can even add some pickle slices on the side if you’re a pickle lover.
Tips & Variations:
- Lean Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This cheeseburger casserole is everything you love about a classic cheeseburger but in the form of a simple, cheesy casserole. It’s a great dish for the whole family, customizable to your taste, and perfect for busy evenings when you need something quick, easy, and comforting. Try it tonight—you won’t be disappointed!
