Cheeseburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, hearty dish that captures all the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but in a cozy, baked casserole format. This recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, pasta, and a rich tomato base, delivering everything you love about cheeseburgers in a satisfying, scoopable meal.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or big appetites, this easy casserole will win hearts around your table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. All the Flavors of a Cheeseburger
It combines seasoned beef, cheese, ketchup-style sauce, and pasta—like eating a loaded cheeseburger with every bite.
2. Easy and Affordable
Basic pantry ingredients, one skillet, and minimal prep make this a reliable weeknight option.
3. Great for Meal Prep
It holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making leftovers just as tasty the next day.
4. Kid-Friendly
No complicated flavors—just cheesy, meaty goodness that kids and adults both love.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon yellow mustard
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Optional Additions
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½ cup pickles (chopped)
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Dash of hot sauce
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Cooked bacon bits (for topping)
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Green onions (for garnish)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: 40 minutes
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Servings: 6 to 8
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Flavor Base
Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese. If using mozzarella, mix that in as well.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup of cheddar and optional bacon bits.
Step 7: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped pickles or green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Cheeseburger Casserole in One Pot
Want fewer dishes? Cook the pasta first and set aside. Use the same pot to cook the meat and make the sauce, then stir everything back together and top with cheese directly in the pot. Cover and let it melt on low heat—no oven needed!
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
Make-Ahead
Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Freezing
Let the cooked casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat single servings in the microwave.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole
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Don’t overcook pasta: Slightly undercook it since it will cook more in the oven.
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Season your beef well: Salt and pepper during the browning process bring out deeper flavor.
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Use good cheese: Shred your own cheese for the best melt and flavor.
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Add layers of flavor: Try smoked paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder for more depth.
Variations to Try
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Add cooked and crumbled bacon either mixed in or sprinkled on top before baking.
Pickle-Lover’s Twist
Add chopped dill pickles for tang and crunch. Stir into the meat mixture or use as a topping.
Spicy Version
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
Low-Carb Option
Swap the pasta for cauliflower florets or use zucchini noodles.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable broth in place of Worcestershire.
What to Serve With Cheeseburger Casserole
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Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adds color and nutrition to your plate.
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Garlic Bread or Rolls: Great for soaking up extra sauce.
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Pickles or Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy side enhances the cheeseburger theme.
How to Store Leftovers
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
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Avoid freezing cheese-heavy leftovers repeatedly as texture can become grainy.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely. Penne, shells, rotini, or bowties all work well.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner version that’s just as tasty.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and double-check labels on sauces and condiments.
Can I add veggies?
Yes—try bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 400
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Protein: 22g
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Fat: 20g
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Carbs: 32g
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Sodium: 620mg Values vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger casserole is more than just a family meal—it’s comfort food at its best. With just the right balance of meat, cheese, and pasta, this dish captures everything people love about a classic cheeseburger in baked form. Whether you make it for weeknight dinner, weekend meal prep, or a cozy potluck, this casserole is always a satisfying, crowd-pleasing favorite.
Customizable, freezer-friendly, and easy to prepare, cheeseburger casserole deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested meal.