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Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole
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This Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick, family-friendly, one-dish comfort meal combining savory ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and hearty pasta baked to bubbly perfection. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers all the classic cheeseburger flavors in an easy, fuss-free casserole perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 8 oz boxed pasta (elbow macaroni or shells)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 3/4 cup milk or cream
  • Optional: 1/4 cup diced pickles or relish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, as it will finish cooking in the casserole.
  2. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
  3. Mix in the sauces: Stir ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika into the browned beef mixture to capture the classic cheeseburger flavor.
  4. Combine pasta and beef mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and beef sauce. Pour in the milk or cream and add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring to combine evenly.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
  6. Bake until bubbly: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for better meltability and richer flavor.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; cook just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the casserole.
  • Always drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a greasy dish.
  • Optional: Add crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture.
  • Allow casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger casserole, easy weeknight dinner, baked pasta, ground beef casserole, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/cheeseburger-casserole/