Looking for an easy, flavorful dish the whole family will enjoy? This cheeseburger casserole is a crowd-pleaser, combining all the classic cheeseburger flavors in a comforting, baked casserole form. Plus, it’s a great way to use everyday ingredients!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra-lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more for topping)
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or small shells)
- 1/4 cup dill pickle slices, chopped (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Execution
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather the ingredients and cook the pasta.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat and stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Seasonings and Sauces: Add the diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese soup, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until well combined.
Combine with Pasta: Mix the cooked pasta into the beef mixture, stirring until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped dill pickles, parsley, or green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Additional tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta for cauliflower to make it lower in carbs.
- Extra Veggies: You can easily add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mixture.
- Freezer Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or jalapeños if you like your casseroles with some heat!
