Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner

Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient casserole form? Look no further than this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe! This hearty dish brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy sharp cheddar cheese to create a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s kid-approved but sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy too.

What sets this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe apart is its simplicity and convenience. Made with pantry staples like tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, this one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also minimizes cleanup afterward. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for those evenings when you need a quick and delicious meal on the table. So, whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking for a new twist on a classic favorite, this cheeseburger casserole is sure to become a family tradition in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Ready in just 30 minutes for busy weeknights
• Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
• One pot means minimal cleanup afterward
• Combines two comfort food classics cheeseburgers and mac and cheese

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes for busy weeknights
• Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
• One pot means minimal cleanup afterward
• Combines two comfort food classics: cheeseburgers and mac and cheese
• Kid approved but sophisticated enough for adults
• Makes excellent leftovers; flavors improve overnight
• Contains complete protein from the beef and cheese combination
• Can be easily doubled for large families or meal prep purposes
• Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months in airtight containers
• Transform with fun burger-inspired add-ins like bacon, mushrooms, or southwestern flavors
• Serve with traditional burger toppings for an interactive and fun meal
• Allows for customization with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein
• Sharp cheddar cheese can be swapped for other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack
• Prepared casserole can be refrigerated before baking and reheated for convenience
• Pairs well with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal
• For a crispy topping, broil the casserole to achieve golden and bubbly cheese

Ingredients for Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner

• 2 tablespoons double concentrated tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• 1 1/2 teaspoons granulated garlic
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, including juices
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley leaves or 1 thinly sliced scallion (optional)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 12 ounces dried elbow macaroni (2 1/2 to 3 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 1/4 cups beef broth, plus additional as needed
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced (3/4 to 1 cup)

Pro Tips for Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner

Pro Tips:

Creating a flavorful cheeseburger casserole is all about layering ingredients. For the best results, brown the ground beef in batches to ensure proper caramelization, adding depth to the dish. Additionally, using freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties will result in a smoother and more flavorful cheese sauce.

To enhance the overall dining experience, allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the sauce to thicken to the perfect consistency, making for a more cohesive and satisfying dish. And for a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil the casserole in the oven for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking to achieve that irresistible finish that adds both texture and flavor.

How to Make Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner

Step 1: Step 01

For a browned top, place an oven rack in the middle and preheat the broiler.

Step 2: Step 02

Finely chop 1/2 medium yellow onion and shred 8 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese using the large holes of a box grater.

Step 3: Step 03

In a Dutch oven or large high-sided skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and ground beef, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Season with granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until beef is browned and onion is tender, about 6 to 7 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cook until tomato paste darkens, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Step 05

Add 3 1/4 cups of beef broth to the pot, along with diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir together and bring to a boil.

Step 6: Step 06

Cook dried elbow macaroni in beef broth over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes. Add more broth as needed if pasta absorbs liquid before fully cooked.

Step 7: Step 07

Take the pot off the heat. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Step 08

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top. Cover and let it sit until the cheese is melted, approximately 3 minutes. For a browned top, uncover and broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and browned, for 2 to 3 minutes.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Cheeseburger Casserole, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their flavor and freshness. Once cooled to room temperature, cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through or use the microwave for a quicker option.

If you want to prepare the Cheeseburger Casserole in advance, you can assemble it up to two days before serving. Store the unbaked casserole in the refrigerator and add the final cheese layer just before baking. Allow the refrigerated casserole to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This make-ahead option is convenient for meal prep or planning meals ahead of time, saving you time during busy weekdays.

For longer storage, the Cheeseburger Casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cooled casserole in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring it is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven or microwave. Freezing portions of this casserole is a great way to have a quick and satisfying meal on hand for busy days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are looking to make a lighter version, you can easily substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein. This swap can reduce the overall fat content while still providing a tasty alternative.

While sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold flavor to the casserole, you can experiment with different cheeses for variety. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses can be used to create a unique flavor profile that suits your preferences.

To save time, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the dish in the oven until warmed through. This make-ahead option is convenient for busy days and allows the flavors to develop even further.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this Cheeseburger Casserole, consider serving it with a side of crispy, seasoned potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a delicious play on classic burger and fries. The contrasting textures will add extra excitement to the meal while complementing the flavors of the hearty casserole. Additionally, topping the casserole with a dollop of tangy sour cream or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick can take this dish to the next level, providing a cool and spicy contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors.

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, create a build-your-own burger bar alongside the cheeseburger casserole. Offer a variety of toppings such as diced pickles, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon bits, and caramelized onions for diners to customize their plates. This DIY approach adds a playful element to the meal, allowing everyone to personalize their casserole experience and enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger in a new and exciting way.

FAQs for Delicious Cheeseburger Casserole: Easy Recipe for Weeknight Dinner

Can I use a different type of protein instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein instead of beef for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of sharp cheddar?

Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for its bold flavor, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for variety.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Reheat it in the oven until warmed through before serving.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this cheeseburger casserole?

A simple salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty dish for a complete meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic burger that will have your family coming back for seconds. It’s not only a quick and easy dinner option for busy weeknights but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and toppings to make this casserole your own. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try out some creative add-ins, the result will be a hearty and delicious meal that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a convenient casserole format. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this cheesy goodness, and enjoy a cozy and flavorful dinner that will surely become a family favorite.