Introduction to Cheeseburger Casserole
Cheeseburger casseroles combine the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of a baked casserole, all in one easy dish. It’s perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for a busy week. This recipe takes the classic cheeseburger elements and transforms them into a one-dish meal that’s simple to make, easy to customize, and packed with familiar, satisfying flavors.
Table of Contents
- Preparation Time
30 minutes - Cooking Time
40 minutes - Serves
6 adults - Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – choose 80-85% lean for a balanced flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese – or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
- 2 cups (240g) uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni) – or substitute with 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes if preferred
- 1 can (14.5 oz or about 400g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce – helps keep the casserole moist
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk – adds creaminess and moisture
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup (60g) diced bell peppers – for extra flavor and color
- 1/4 cup (30g) crumbled bacon – for a richer, smoky flavor
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – if you like it spicy
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream or cream cheese – for a creamier texture
These quantities yield about 6 servings. You can adjust the ingredients depending on the serving size needed.
Step-by-Step Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Preparing Ingredients
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet and cook the ground beef until it’s browned evenly. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being overly greasy.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic, and any other seasonings.
- Prepare the Pasta or Potatoes: Cook the pasta until just al dente or prepare thinly sliced potatoes.
Assembling the Casserole
- Layering: In a baking dish, layer the pasta or potatoes, add the beef mixture, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover the casserole, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Customization Ideas for Your Cheeseburger Casserole
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re adding bacon, switching up cheeses, or making a spicy version, there’s room to customize:
- Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetarian Alternatives: Substitute beef with plant-based ground meat.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole
For a perfect bake:
- Baking Time and Temperature: Ensure the casserole is heated evenly by using the right baking time (about 30-40 minutes).
- Avoiding a Dry Casserole: Adding a small amount of tomato sauce or broth to the beef can help retain moisture.
Nutritional Information
This recipe provides approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.
Adjusting for Healthier Versions
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
- Reduce Calories: Opt for leaner beef or use reduced-fat cheese.
Storing and Reheating Cheeseburger Casserole
To keep leftovers fresh:
- Storing: Keep the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat portions in the microwave, or bake at a low temperature until warm to retain the original texture.
Freezing Cheeseburger Casserole
- This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. Condiments like ketchup, mustard, or pickles bring out the cheeseburger experience.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of a cheeseburger in a convenient casserole form. This recipe is flexible and can be customized to suit dietary preferences or personal taste. Give it a try, and make it your own by adding flavors and ingredients you love.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it fresh when ready to serve.
Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely! Try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
How can I make it gluten-free? Substitute the pasta with gluten-free options, or use thinly sliced potatoes as a base.
What are some good vegetable additions? Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach add extra nutrition and flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked ingredients? Yes, pre-cooked ground beef and pasta can be used to speed up preparation.
How do I keep leftovers fresh? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat as needed.
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Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef – choose 80-85% lean for a balanced flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 cups 200g shredded cheddar cheese – or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
- 2 cups 240g uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni) – or substitute with 3 cups thinly sliced potatoes if preferred
- 1 can (14.5 oz or about 400g diced tomatoes, drained)
- 1/2 cup 120ml tomato sauce – helps keep the casserole moist
- 1/2 cup 120ml milk – adds creaminess and moisture
Optional Additions
- 1/2 cup 60g diced bell peppers – for extra flavor and color
- 1/4 cup 30g crumbled bacon – for a richer, smoky flavor
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – if you like it spicy
- 1/2 cup 120g sour cream or cream cheese – for a creamier texture
Instructions
Preparing Ingredients
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet and cook the ground beef until it’s browned evenly. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from being overly greasy.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in salt, pepper, garlic, and any other seasonings.
- Prepare the Pasta or Potatoes: Cook the pasta until just al dente or prepare thinly sliced potatoes.
Assembling the Casserole
- Layering: In a baking dish, layer the pasta or potatoes, add the beef mixture, and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover the casserole, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly
