If you’re craving the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger but want something even heartier and more satisfying, look no further than this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe. Packed with juicy beef, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta, this dish delivers all the savory goodness of a cheeseburger in an easy-to-make, one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and tricks to make this cheeseburger casserole unforgettable!

What is a Cheeseburger Casserole?
A Cheeseburger Casserole combines all the delicious elements of a cheeseburger—ground beef, onions, cheese, and a variety of condiments—into a warm, cheesy casserole baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of a cheeseburger but wants a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal prep and clean-up.
Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to get started on this delicious cheeseburger casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef: For that rich, meaty flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a nice layer of flavor to the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of warmth.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini): Acts as the base for the casserole.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds moisture and a bit of tanginess.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Binds everything together with a savory tomato base.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Gives that authentic cheeseburger taste.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a touch of tangy flavor.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: The key ingredient to a cheesy, delicious topping.
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: For extra gooeyness and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Ingredients List for Toppings (Optional but Recommended)
- Pickles: For that authentic cheeseburger bite.
- Sesame seeds: A fun touch to mimic a burger bun.
- Chopped parsley or green onions: For a fresh finish.
- Crumbled bacon: Adds a savory crunch to each bite.
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to switch things up or cater to dietary preferences, here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Meat Substitutes: You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Pasta Substitutes: If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free pasta, or for a lower-carb option, try zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, Swiss, or Colby.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Cheeseburger Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Onions and Garlic: Once the beef is browned, add the diced onions and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Tomato Products and Condiments: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine with Pasta: Once the sauce is ready, stir in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional: Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you like a crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like pickles, sesame seeds, parsley, or crumbled bacon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) because it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ground beef with salt and pepper while cooking. It’s essential for bringing out the best flavors in your casserole.
- Too Much Liquid: Be sure to drain the diced tomatoes thoroughly before adding them to the casserole. Too much liquid can make the dish soggy.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Cheeseburger Casserole
This hearty casserole pairs well with simple side dishes like:
- Salads: A crisp, refreshing side salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve it with roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients and color.
- Bread: A slice of garlic bread or a buttered roll is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Casserole
- Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in small ramekins or bowls to give it a more gourmet, restaurant-like feel.
- Garnish Creatively: Top each serving with a few slices of pickles, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a drizzle of ketchup or mustard to emphasize the cheeseburger theme.
- Serve Family-Style: Present the casserole in the baking dish, letting everyone dig in at the table for a fun and casual dining experience.
Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you're ready to eat, simply bake it as directed.
- Freeze for Later: Cheeseburger casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Add a Crispy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips over the cheese before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking. It’s a great option for meal prep.
How long does cheeseburger casserole last in the fridge?
Once cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, but don't bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be used in place of ground beef without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add chopped veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to make the dish healthier and more colorful.
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is the perfect comfort food for busy families, casual dinners, or meal prepping. With its combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a hit every time. Whether you’re following the traditional recipe or experimenting with your own variations, this dish is easy to customize and guaranteed to satisfy your cheeseburger cravings. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat your family to this delicious, cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole!
Ready to dig in? Give this Cheeseburger Casserole a try and let us know how it turns out!
PrintCheeseburger Casserole Recipe
This easy cheeseburger casserole recipe features ground beef, cheddar cheese, onions, and pasta baked to perfection. It's a quick, crowd-pleasing meal that tastes like a cheeseburger in casserole form. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner, this hearty dish is packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Diabetic
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Cheddar cheese
- Tomato sauce
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Pasta (elbow or other)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can add toppings like pickles, bacon, or tomatoes for extra flavor.
- This recipe is freezer-friendly. Store leftovers in an airtight container
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
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