Description
Cheesy, beefy, and packed with classic burger flavor, this Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food the whole family will love. With layers of seasoned ground beef, pasta, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s like a cheeseburger in casserole form—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you need a satisfying one-dish dinner.
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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
½ onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work well)
For the Cheese Sauce:
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra stretch)
½ cup sour cream
½ cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
2 tbsp cream cheese
Toppings (Optional):
Chopped pickles
Chopped tomatoes
Shredded lettuce (for serving)
Sesame seeds (for a “burger bun” touch)
Green onions or chives
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
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Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes).
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Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
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Mix in tomato sauce, tomato paste, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
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Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce
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Reduce heat to low and stir in milk, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
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Mix in 1 cup of cheddar and all the mozzarella. Stir until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine & Assemble
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Add cooked pasta to the meat and cheese mixture. Stir until fully coated.
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Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake
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Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Broil for the last 2–3 minutes if you want the cheese golden and crispy.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
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Let cool slightly, then top with optional burger-style garnishes like chopped pickles or tomatoes.
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Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
Notes
Use Lean Beef – Reduces excess grease but still gives great flavor.
Add Pickles After Baking – Keeps them crisp and tangy.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Slightly undercook it so it stays firm after baking.
Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Make It a Meal – Serve with a green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food