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Cheesy Cheeseburger Casserole baked with seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese in a casserole dish.

Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

This Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato-based sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. It's a hearty, family-friendly dinner that's easy to prepare in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or potluck gatherings. Every bite delivers the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, cheesy baked casserole.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Casserole, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6
Calories 540 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole

  • 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
  • 8 ounces (225 g) elbow macaroni
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

  • Step 2: Brown the Beef

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease

  • Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

    Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well and simmer for about 5 minutes.

  • Step 4: Combine Everything

    Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until evenly coated with the sauce. Fold in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.

  • Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

    Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top

  • Step 6: Bake

    Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

  • Step 7: Garnish and Serve

    Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, bacon bits, green onions, or pickle slices if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest melt.
  • Cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Drain the ground beef well to prevent a greasy casserole.
  • Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
  • Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version.
  • For extra cheesiness, mix in cream cheese or sour cream before baking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
  • Serve with a green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Keyword Cheeseburger Casserole, Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe, cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, Ground Beef Pasta Bake, Hamburger Casserole