Cheeseburger Casserole: A Family-Friendly Comfort Food Classic
Cheeseburger Casserole brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty, cheesy, and comforting baked pasta dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, this casserole is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can tomato sauce 15 ounces
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 ounces
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 12 oz pasta elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- optional pickles chopped, for garnish
- optional bacon cooked and crumbled, for garnish
- optional hot sauce for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and milk. Stir until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option. Best served fresh for optimal texture.
