Cheeseburger Casserole

This Cheeseburger Casserole combines all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With savory ground beef, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole brings a cozy, homestyle feel to the dinner table. The combination of simple pantry staples with hearty seasonings makes it a dependable recipe that pleases kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (500 g / 1 lb): Provides a rich, savory base full of juicy, browned flavor essential for cheeseburger taste.
• Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth while softening as it cooks with the beef.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2–3): Imparts aromatic warmth that complements the meat and enhances overall flavor.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential seasoning that balances and enhances the natural flavors throughout the casserole.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and complexity to the beef mixture.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Reinforces the onion flavor, building savory undertones without additional texture.
• Mustard (1 teaspoon, yellow or Dijon): Brings tangy brightness that mimics traditional burger condiments.
• Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Sweet and tangy component that rounds out the savory beef mixture.
• Uncooked pasta (2 cups, elbows or preferred shape): Adds tender, chewy texture to balance the meaty sauce.
• Shredded cheese (3 cups, cheddar or blend): Provides creamy meltiness and sharp flavor that binds the casserole together.
• Milk (2–3 cups): Combines with eggs to create a rich, creamy sauce that keeps the pasta moist.
• Large eggs (2): Helps set the casserole when baked and adds protein richness.
• Optional toppings: Diced pickles, extra ketchup, mustard, or sliced tomatoes add fresh, tangy contrasts.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Preheating ensures the casserole cooks evenly and develops a golden crust.

Cook the Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until fully cooked and no longer pink. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, mustard, and ketchup to infuse the mixture with classic burger flavors. Simmer briefly to meld the seasonings, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Pasta

Boil salted water and cook the pasta until just al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to prevent becoming mushy after baking. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Whisk the Milk and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs until smooth and fully combined. This mixture will form a creamy custard that binds the casserole ingredients during baking.

Combine Pasta and Meat Mixture

Add the cooked pasta and beef mixture to the milk-egg custard, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly. This integration ensures every bite is flavorful and moist.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top to create a rich, golden cheese crust once baked.

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese has melted into a bubbly, lightly browned layer. Baking melds the flavors and sets the custard for a firm yet creamy texture.

Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes to set further and make slicing easier. Add optional toppings such as diced pickles, extra ketchup, mustard, or fresh tomatoes to enhance the cheeseburger experience.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this comforting casserole alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls complement the cheesy, meaty flavors perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like rotini, penne, or shells will work great in this casserole.

Is it necessary to add eggs?

Yes, eggs help bind the casserole together and create a creamy custard texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

What cheese options work best?

Cheddar is classic, but a blend with Monterey Jack or mozzarella adds great meltiness.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even finely chopped carrots can be added to the beef mixture.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through or use a microwave for convenience.

Cheeseburger Casserole

A comforting casserole blending savory ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese for an easy, flavorful family meal perfect for weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course casserole, dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large skillet
• 1 pot for boiling pasta
• 1 mixing bowl
• 1 baking dish greased

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 to 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon mustard yellow or Dijon
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 2 cups uncooked pasta elbows or preferred shape
• 3 cups shredded cheese cheddar or blend
• 2 to 3 cups milk
• 2 large eggs
• Optional toppings: diced pickles extra ketchup, mustard, or sliced tomatoes

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350 °F and grease a baking dish.
• Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet over medium heat until browned.
• Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, onion powder, mustard, and ketchup; simmer briefly and remove from heat.
• Boil salted water in a pot, cook pasta until just al dente, then drain.
• Whisk together milk and eggs in a large bowl until smooth.
• Combine cooked pasta and beef mixture with milk-egg mixture, stirring well.
• Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
• Let cool slightly before serving, adding optional toppings if desired.

Notes

• Use a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend for ideal melt and flavor.
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies.
• Assemble the casserole the night before for easy meal prep.
• Serve with salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner.