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Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole

A hearty and comforting one-pan Cheeseburger Casserole combining seasoned ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and pasta or potatoes, baked to bubbly perfection. This family-friendly dish offers simple prep, customizable options, and all the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a cozy casserole form.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Base

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente OR 2 cups diced potatoes, par-cooked

Vegetables and Condiments

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pickles

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Prepare the Pasta or Potatoes: While the beef cooks, boil elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Alternatively, dice potatoes and par-cook them by boiling or microwaving until just tender.
  3. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, stir together ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a tangy cheeseburger-style sauce.
  5. Combine All Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed onions, cooked pasta or potatoes, the prepared sauce, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and beaten eggs. Stir until evenly combined and creamy.
  6. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on the edges.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for bold flavor and better melting.
  • Drain the cooked beef thoroughly to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Do not overcook pasta; al dente holds texture better during baking.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set for cleaner slices.
  • Add chopped pickles after baking if you prefer a fresh, crunchy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger casserole, ground beef casserole, one pan meal, family dinner, comfort food, baked casserole