Name: Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni (or similar pasta); 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) tomato sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tbsp mustard; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

This cheeseburger casserole is my go-to comfort food when I want all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but in a hearty, baked pasta dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and loaded with ground beef, pasta, and a rich tomato sauce that bakes to perfection.

Cheeseburger Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines the classic taste of a cheeseburger with the coziness of a baked casserole. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and makes enough to feed a crowd. I also appreciate that it’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy nights, and it’s always a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Elbow macaroni (or similar pasta)
Canned diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Ketchup
Mustard
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt
Pepper
Olive oil

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I cook the pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain and set it aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion until softened, then add the garlic for about 30 seconds.
I add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbly, seasoning with salt and pepper.
I stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, and mustard, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.
I combine the beef mixture with the cooked pasta, stirring until well coated.
I transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. I usually spend around 15 minutes on prep time and about 30 minutes cooking, so it’s ready in roughly 45 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option. If I’m in the mood for extra spice, I add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes. For more vegetables, I like mixing in diced bell peppers or mushrooms. Swapping cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese gives it a different flavor twist.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When I want to reheat, I either microwave it in single portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it when I’m ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely, I sometimes use rotini, penne, or shells depending on what I have on hand.

How can I make it healthier?

I like using whole wheat pasta, lean ground meat, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes, I sometimes mix cheese into the pasta as well as on top for extra cheesiness.

What should I serve with cheeseburger casserole?

I often pair it with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

This cheeseburger casserole is one of my favorite comfort meals because it’s hearty, flavorful, and so easy to put together. I enjoy making it for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. It’s a dish I keep coming back to whenever I want something filling and satisfying.