Description

Hearty, cheesy, and packed with all the classic burger flavors, this Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Think juicy ground beef, pasta, tangy ketchup, mustard, melty cheese, and even some pickles—baked together into a warm and satisfying one-dish meal. It’s everything you love about a cheeseburger, served casserole-style!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
½ cup ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups beef broth or water
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ tsp paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

Optional Toppings:

Diced dill pickles (classic cheeseburger taste)
Extra shredded cheese
Chopped green onions or chives
Sesame seeds (for a fun burger-bun vibe)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Meat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft (about 6–8 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Add tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Simmer

Stir in uncooked pasta and reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
If using an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
If not, transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with cheese.
Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Top and Serve

Garnish with chopped pickles, green onions, or extra cheese as desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use Good Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds a bold, classic flavor.
Don’t Skip the Ketchup & Mustard – They’re key for that cheeseburger taste.
Simmer Gently – Stir often to keep pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Customize It – Add bacon, jalapeños, or mushrooms to mix it up.
Add Pickles After Baking – Keeps them crisp and full of flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American