👉CheeseburgerCasseroleRecipe – Recipes on a Budget

Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

This Cheeseburger Casserole is the perfect comfort food dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a cozy, one-pan meal. With a savory ground beef base, melty cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni noodles, it’s easy to see why this dish is a family favorite. Serve it topped with crunchy pickles, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes for that authentic cheeseburger taste!

Get ready for a delicious blend of hearty ingredients, simple cooking steps, and a few culinary secrets that will transform your casserole into a memorable meal for everyone. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is a winner!

Ingredients Overview

1 pound ground beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease or swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. Yellow or white onions work well.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic provides a robust, aromatic element. If using pre-minced garlic, 1 teaspoon equals one clove.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the savory flavors of the meat.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: A tangy, umami-packed sauce that boosts the flavor of the beef mixture.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and texture. Choose fire-roasted tomatoes for extra smoky flavor.
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup: Brings a rich, tangy sweetness that ties the dish together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bold cheesy flavor or try a blend of cheeses for added complexity.
2 cups cooked macaroni noodles: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but rotini or penne can work if that’s what you have on hand.
Pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes for topping: Optional toppings that add a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Getting the oven hot and ready ensures even baking and perfect results every time.

2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Break the meat into crumbles as it cooks.
Add 1 diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This should take about 4-5 minutes. Cooking the onion and garlic together infuses the meat with delicious flavors.
Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.

3. Create the Tomato Base

Pour in 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes and 1 can (10.75 oz) of condensed tomato soup. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Combine with Macaroni

Stir in 2 cups of cooked macaroni noodles until evenly coated with the sauce. The macaroni should be cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften in the oven.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out in an even layer.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. This creates a bubbly, cheesy layer that’s hard to resist!

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through. The cheese should be golden and bubbling.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with pickles, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes. These fresh toppings add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

1. Choose the Right Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds bold flavor. Mix in a little mozzarella or provolone for extra gooeyness.

2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic has a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced, so it’s worth the extra step.

3. Avoid Overcooking the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni just until al dente. Overcooking it will cause it to become mushy when baked.

4. Add Some Heat: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

5. Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta, and check the labels on your canned ingredients for gluten-free options.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For individual servings, portion out and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option and works well in this recipe.

3. What’s the best pasta to use?
Elbow macaroni is traditional, but other small shapes like shells or rotini are great too.

4. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure to cover it with foil if reheating. Adding a splash of beef broth or milk before reheating can help maintain moisture.

5. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even shredded carrots can be added to the beef mixture.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you’ll need about 1 ½ cups of diced fresh tomatoes. Cook them down a bit longer to release the juices.

7. Can I add bacon?
Yes! Adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture will enhance the cheeseburger flavor.

8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I skip the tomato soup?
For a less creamy version, you can use tomato sauce instead of condensed soup.

10. What can I serve with cheeseburger casserole?
Pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

11. How do I add more crunch?
Top the casserole with crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips for a crunchy finish.

12. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the beef mixture as directed, then transfer to a slow cooker and add the pasta. Cook on low for 2 hours, adding cheese in the last 30 minutes.

13. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The cheese should be fully melted and the casserole should be hot and bubbly around the edges.

14. Can I substitute with a different soup?
Cream of mushroom or cheddar cheese soup are good alternatives to tomato soup.

15. How can I make it healthier?
Use ground turkey, whole wheat pasta, and reduce the amount of cheese to lighten up the dish.

16. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
Use soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar umami flavor.

17. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or split between two 9×13 pans.

18. How do I keep the toppings fresh?
Add the lettuce and tomato toppings just before serving to keep them crisp.

19. Can I make it spicy?
Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a kick.

20. What if I don’t have elbow macaroni?
Any small pasta shape will work—try penne, rotini, or even farfalle.