Cheeseburger Casserole That Combines Burgers and Pasta Like a Dream

Cheeseburger casserole is the ultimate mashup of two beloved comfort foods: burgers and pasta. This hearty, cheesy dish brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into one easy-to-make casserole that the whole family will love.

This recipe delivers whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal to feed a crowd, or something to satisfy picky eaters.

Let’s explore how to make this cheesy masterpiece and ways to customize it to suit your tastes.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create the perfect cheeseburger casserole:

1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
8 ounces of pasta (macaroni, shells, or any short variety)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites)
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes or 1 cup tomato sauce
1/2 cup ketchup (for that authentic cheeseburger flavor)
2 tablespoons mustard
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional add-ins:

Diced pickles (for a tangy twist)
Chopped bacon (for a smoky kick)
A handful of spinach or diced bell peppers (for extra veggies)

Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Casserole dish
Mixing bowls
Pot for boiling pasta

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, a deep oven-safe skillet can double as your casserole dish.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, cook until browned, and break it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce), ketchup, and mustard. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Combine and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

- Combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture in a large mixing bowl. Stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of ketchup.

Tips and Tricks

Prevent Dryness: Add a splash of milk or cream to the beef mixture if it looks too dry before combining it with the pasta.
Customize the Flavor: Swap ketchup and mustard for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Save Time by Preparing the beef mixture and cooking the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble them right before baking.
Make It Your Own: Want more crunch? Top the casserole with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

A crisp green salad for balance.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls are used to soak up any extra sauce.
Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrients.

For a complete meal, serve with a refreshing drink like iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated.
Freezing: Assemble the casserole, but skip the baking step. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Variations

Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Casserole: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and serve with sour cream.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based ground “meat” or lentils and load up on veggies like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: Add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some heat.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Definitely! Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a smoky Gouda would work beautifully.

Q: What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

A: Cook the pasta to al dente and avoid overbaking the casserole. The sauce will keep the pasta moist without making it soggy.

Cheeseburger casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to adapt to your family’s tastes. With its rich, cheesy layers and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and let us know how you make it your own!