Cheeseburger Casserole
Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient, baked form.
This Cheeseburger Casserole brings together the best of both worlds—delicious cheeseburgers and the convenience of a casserole. It's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and the whole family will love it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- All the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger in one dish
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
- Cheesy, hearty, and satisfying for the whole family
A Comforting One-Pot Meal
Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, cleverly combining all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a single, satisfying dish. Whether you're coming home from a long day or hosting a family gathering, this casserole is sure to please. Its hearty ingredients provide the nourishment you need, while the cheesy goodness keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
This dish is not just delicious; it's incredibly easy to prepare. You can have it ready and in the oven in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of a mountain of dishes.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of Cheeseburger Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
If you're a fan of spicy food, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick. And don't forget about the toppings! Chopped pickles, onions, or even a dollop of sour cream can elevate the casserole to new heights.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Cheeseburger Casserole is also an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and freeze half for later. Simply prepare the casserole, allow it to cool, and then wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
This makes it a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeks or unexpected guests. You'll always have a hearty, delicious dish on hand that can be served with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Cheeseburger Casserole:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped pickles for topping (optional)
- Ketchup and mustard for serving (optional)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Cheeseburger Casserole:
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
Add Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Cheeseburger Casserole, the possibilities are endless. Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal or serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting feast. You can also provide a variety of condiments on the side, such as ketchup, mustard, and relish, allowing everyone to personalize their serving just like a classic cheeseburger.
For a fun twist, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a cute and portable option that's perfect for gatherings or potlucks. This presentation not only looks appealing but also makes it easy for guests to serve themselves.
Storage Tips
Leftover Cheeseburger Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until heated through. The flavors continue to meld and develop, making leftovers almost as good as the first serving.
If you're planning to store the casserole for longer, consider freezing it before baking. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal whenever you need it, without the fuss of preparation. Just remember to label your container with the date and contents for easy access later.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it.
→ What can I serve with Cheeseburger Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Cheeseburger Casserole
Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient, baked form.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped pickles for topping (optional)
- Ketchup and mustard for serving (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced tomatoes, elbow macaroni, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g