Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Cheeseburger Dinner Casserole is the perfect dish for you! Combining all the delicious flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of a baked casserole, this dish is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks.
Packed with savory ground beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked macaroni, this casserole is a one-pan wonder that is both budget-friendly and easy to make.
In this post, we will guide you through everything you need to know about making the best Cheeseburger Dinner Casserole—from ingredient substitutions to storage tips, and even some variations to suit different taste preferences. Plus, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you perfect this dish!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and condensed cheddar cheese soup. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Add cooked macaroni to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole
- Use high-quality cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella provides the best flavor and texture.
- Customize with add-ins: Try adding bacon bits, pickles, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Swap the pasta: Instead of elbow macaroni, you can use penne, rotini, or shells.
- Make it low-carb: Swap pasta for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
FAQs
1. Can I make Cheeseburger Dinner Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it with foil and bake when ready.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
4. What can I serve with Cheeseburger Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
5. Can I make this casserole without cheese?
Yes, but it will change the texture. Consider using dairy-free cheese or omitting cheese altogether for a lighter version.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Dinner Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, this casserole is a great alternative to traditional cheeseburgers, giving you all the flavors in a convenient one-pan meal. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, homemade dish that is sure to be a family favorite!
Did you love this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you made any fun variations!
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Cheeseburger Dinner Casserole – A Cheesy, Comforting Family Favorite
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 can (10 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon mustard powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, mustard powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Stir in diced tomatoes and condensed cheddar cheese soup. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole:
5. Add cooked macaroni to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake and Serve:
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.