Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending the hearty flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the satisfying texture of pasta. This dish takes everything you love about a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, savory seasonings, and melted cheese—and combines it with tender macaroni for a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s both filling and flavorful. Ideal for feeding a family, this casserole brings the familiar flavors of a fast-food favorite to your dinner table in a fun and unexpected way. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or a crowd, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Why Make a Cheeseburger Casserole?

Cheeseburger Casserole is a versatile, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Its simplicity makes it an excellent go-to recipe when you need a quick, crowd-pleasing dish without much hassle. Not only does it deliver the classic cheeseburger taste, but it also has the added convenience of being baked in a single dish, making cleanup a breeze. This casserole can also be made ahead of time, ideal for meal prepping or freezing for later use. Plus, its customizable ingredients make it adaptable for different preferences—add extra veggies, swap the pasta, or tweak the spices to suit your taste. With its hearty ingredients and kid-friendly appeal, Cheeseburger Casserole is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any time you need a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients Overview

Key ingredients in Cheeseburger Casserole include lean ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. The combination of tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings adds depth of flavor, while using fresh, high-quality ingredients like real cheese and lean beef ensures the best results.

Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Broth

Before you begin assembling your cheeseburger casserole, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake. Preheating is essential for even cooking, ensuring your casserole bakes consistently without becoming dry.

Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or butter. This prevents the casserole from sticking to the dish, making serving and cleanup much easier. Greasing the pan is crucial, especially when working with a cheesy casserole, as the melted cheese can cause sticking.

For the broth, heat 2 cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl for about 4 minutes. Add three beef bouillon cubes to the hot water and stir until fully dissolved. Bouillon cubes add concentrated beef flavor to the dish, ensuring a robust base for your casserole. Fully dissolving the bouillon is key for an even distribution of flavor throughout the dish. You don’t want any clumps of undissolved bouillon, as they can make certain bites overly salty. Set the broth aside once ready, as it will be added later during the cooking process.

Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding 1 pound of lean ground beef. When cooking the ground beef, use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it browns. This ensures even cooking and prevents large chunks, making the casserole easier to eat. Cook the beef until it is completely browned, which typically takes about 6-8 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when there are no traces of pink left in the meat.

Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease. This step is especially important if you’re using beef with a higher fat content. Excess grease can make the casserole feel heavy and greasy, so it’s important to remove it before continuing. For a healthier option, stick to lean ground beef (90% lean or higher), which reduces the amount of fat in the dish.

Using lean beef also improves the overall texture of the casserole, allowing the flavors of the seasonings and other ingredients to shine through without being overwhelmed by excess oil. Once the grease is drained, return the beef to the skillet and prepare to add the next set of ingredients.

Step 3: Adding Onion and Seasonings

Once your beef is browned and drained, it’s time to add layers of flavor by incorporating finely diced onion and seasonings. Start by adding 1 medium onion (finely diced) to the skillet with the beef. Cook the onion with the beef for 4-5 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The onion should soften and turn translucent, releasing its sweetness, which will enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. Properly sautéed onions add a subtle depth to the dish.

As the onion softens, it’s time to add the seasonings. First, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper to season the beef. Then, add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic for an aromatic punch, followed by 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of chili powder. These seasonings work together to create a well-rounded flavor profile, with the Italian seasoning bringing herbs like oregano and thyme into the mix. The garlic and garlic powder enhance the savory aspect, while the chili powder adds a touch of mild heat that rounds out the flavors.

Allow the beef, onions, and seasonings to cook together for an additional 4-5 minutes, ensuring the onions are soft and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef.

Step 4: Incorporating Worcestershire Sauce, Tomato Paste, and Diced Tomatoes

Now that the beef and onions are seasoned, it’s time to deepen the flavor of the dish by adding Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and petite diced tomatoes. Start by stirring 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture. This sauce is packed with umami, a savory taste that enhances the meatiness of the dish and gives it a more complex flavor.

Next, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Tomato paste is thick and concentrated, so it will add a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy depth to the casserole. Stir the tomato paste into the beef mixture until it’s fully incorporated, making sure it coats the beef evenly. This will give the casserole its signature cheeseburger-like flavor while also thickening the sauce.

Finally, add a 15-ounce can of petite diced tomatoes, including their juices. The undrained tomatoes will add both moisture and acidity to balance out the richness of the beef and cheese. The juices from the tomatoes help cook the pasta later on, while the tomato pieces add texture to the dish. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cooking the Pasta in the Skillet

One of the time-saving tricks in this recipe is cooking the pasta directly in the beef mixture. This method infuses the pasta with the flavors of the beef, seasonings, and tomatoes, making every bite flavorful.

After the beef, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes have simmered together, stir in 2 cups of dried large elbow macaroni. Pour in the prepared broth (the 2 cups of water with the dissolved beef bouillon cubes) over the pasta and meat mixture. The broth provides the liquid needed for cooking the pasta, but because it’s also packed with flavor from the bouillon, it enhances the dish rather than diluting it.

Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the pasta cook in the beef and broth mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the skillet. Stirring also helps distribute the pasta evenly throughout the skillet, so it cooks consistently. The pasta should be tender but not mushy. If you find that the pasta is still too firm, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Adding Sour Cream and Milk for Creaminess

Once the pasta is cooked and has absorbed the flavors of the beef and broth, it’s time to add a creamy component to the casserole. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream and ¼ cup of whole milk. These two ingredients are essential for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes while creating a rich, creamy texture that makes the casserole feel indulgent.

Sour cream adds a tangy, smooth texture that pairs perfectly with the beef, while the whole milk helps to thin the mixture slightly, ensuring it remains creamy without being too thick. The combination of sour cream and milk brings a velvety finish to the dish.

As you stir the sour cream and milk into the beef and pasta, the mixture should become evenly creamy. If you prefer a richer dish, you can substitute the whole milk with heavy cream. Alternatively, for a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, though it may add more tang to the dish.

Once the sour cream and milk are fully incorporated, the mixture is ready for the final step of assembling and baking.

Step 7: Layering and Baking the Casserole

With the beef and pasta mixture prepared, it’s time to assemble the casserole in layers for baking. Begin by spooning half of the beef and pasta mixture into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. This creates the first layer, which serves as the base of the casserole.

Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top of the beef mixture. Use 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar for the entire dish, so for this layer, you’ll use about half of each cheese (¾ cup of each). Mozzarella provides a creamy melt, while cheddar adds a sharp, tangy flavor, making the two cheeses an ideal pairing for this dish.

After adding the first cheese layer, spoon the remaining beef and pasta mixture over the top, spreading it evenly again. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the top layer. The cheese on top will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden, bubbly crust that makes this casserole irresistible.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. The top should be lightly golden and slightly crispy around the edges. You’ll know the casserole is ready when the cheese is fully melted and the dish is bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Garnishing and Serving

Once your casserole has finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

For a final touch of color and flavor, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of dried parsley over the top. The parsley not only adds a pop of green but also enhances the freshness of the dish, balancing the rich flavors of the beef, cheese, and pasta.

Serve the cheeseburger casserole hot, paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the hearty, cheesy main dish. The casserole is rich and flavorful, so light, fresh sides will offer a nice contrast, making it a well-rounded meal.

Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Casserole

To ensure your Cheeseburger Casserole stays moist and flavorful, it’s important to monitor cooking times closely, especially when baking. Overbaking can cause the cheese and pasta to dry out. Additionally, when cooking the pasta in the skillet, stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water or broth to maintain creaminess.

For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave for convenience, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain the original texture.

If making the casserole ahead of time, assemble it fully, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and bake as directed.

Popular Variations

Low-Carb/Keto Version: For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, substitute the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini slices. These vegetables provide a similar texture while significantly reducing the carb content. Steam the cauliflower or zucchini briefly before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.

Vegetarian Option: To make the dish vegetarian, use plant-based ground beef alternatives or load up on extra veggies such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. These substitutions still provide a hearty and filling dish, with plenty of flavor and texture.
Spicy Cheeseburger Casserole: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of chili powder or add red pepper flakes and chopped jalapeños to the seasoning mix. This will give the casserole a spicy kick while maintaining the rich, cheesy goodness.
Cheese Swap: Change up the flavor by experimenting with different types of cheese. Pepper jack can add a spicy note, while gouda or Swiss cheese offer a creamy and slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the beef and pasta.

Side Dishes to Serve with Cheeseburger Casserole

To balance the richness of Cheeseburger Casserole, serve it with light and fresh side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole. The acidity of the vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the beef and cheese. For a heartier option, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls complement the dish perfectly, providing a satisfying, buttery crunch. If you prefer vegetables, lightly steamed broccoli or green beans are excellent choices. Their simplicity and bright flavors pair well with the bold, savory notes of the casserole.

Beverage Pairings

For beverages, a light, crisp beer like a lager or pale ale complements the savory, cheesy flavors of the casserole. If you prefer wine, a medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel pairs nicely. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea or lemonade offer a refreshing, palate-cleansing contrast to the dish.

Cheeseburger Casserole