Cheeseburger Casserole

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a cozy dish that feels like a hug in a bowl?

When the craving for a cheeseburger hits but you want something heartier to share with family, a Cheeseburger Casserole is the answer! This beloved dish has been passed down through kitchens for decades, combining the juicy flavors of a classic burger with the comforting goodness of a baked pasta casserole. 🍔🧀

Imagine tender pasta layered with savory ground beef, onions, and garlic, all bound together with a creamy, cheesy sauce, then topped with melted golden cheese that bubbles to perfection. It’s the type of dish that brings everyone to the table, filling the air with warmth and nostalgia.

Traditionally, casseroles like this became popular in American homes during the mid-20th century because they were economical, family-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Today, the cheeseburger casserole carries that same spirit of simplicity and comfort, making it a go-to recipe when you want something delicious without fuss.

So, let’s tie on that apron, preheat the oven, and create a dish that will have your loved ones asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp ketchup (optional, for that classic burger tang)
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese (for creaminess)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish 🌿

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the pasta 🍝
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the beef 🍳
   In a large skillet, heat over medium. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté onions and garlic 🧄
   Stir in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sauces 🍅
   Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors blend together.
5. Make it creamy 🥄
   Lower the heat and stir in sour cream or cream cheese until smooth. Add half of the shredded cheddar and half of the mozzarella, stirring until melted.
6. Combine with pasta 🍲
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy beef sauce.
7. Assemble the casserole 🥘
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top.
8. Bake until bubbly 🔥
   Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and serve 🌿
   Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and garnish with parsley or green onions. Slice, serve, and enjoy this cheeseburger comfort in casserole form!

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~450 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

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#ComfortFood 🍽️ #CheeseburgerCasserole 🧀 #FamilyDinner ❤️ #EasyRecipes 👩‍🍳 #WeeknightMeals

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️