If you grew up loving Hamburger Helper, this Cheeseburger Casserole will hit you with a wave of cozy nostalgia — only better. Made entirely from scratch in one pot, this hearty, cheesy dish combines ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-beef sauce that’s loaded with flavor. Topped with melty cheddar, it’s a comforting dinner that feels homemade yet just as easy as the boxed version. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a warm, family-style meal, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying.
Ingredients
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced (about ¾ to 1 cup)
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1½ teaspoons granulated garlic
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (double concentrated, if possible)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 (32-ounce) carton low-sodium beef broth (about 4 cups), divided
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (regular or petite, with juices)
• 12 ounces dried elbow macaroni (2½ to 3 cups)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or sliced scallion (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. (Optional) Preheat for Browning:
If you want a golden, cheesy top, arrange a rack in the middle of your oven and preheat the broiler.
2. Cook Beef and Onions:
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and ground beef. Break up the meat with a spoon and season with 1½ teaspoons granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook until beef is browned and onions are soft, about 6–7 minutes.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Worcestershire:
Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Let cook for about 1 minute until the tomato paste deepens in color and becomes fragrant.
4. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in 3¼ cups beef broth, then add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well, add the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Add the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to medium. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender. If it absorbs too much liquid before fully cooked, add the remaining broth a few tablespoons at a time.
6. Add Cheese:
Remove from heat and stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Finish and Serve:
Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheese. Cover and let sit for 2–3 minutes until melted, or broil uncovered for a browned, bubbly finish. Sprinkle with parsley or scallions before serving.
Tips
- Use Lean Beef: It keeps the dish flavorful without too much grease.
- Customize the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It should be just tender to keep the texture balanced.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Add Veggies: Stir in diced bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition.
FAQs
→ Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Small shells, rotelle, or penne work well — just adjust cooking time slightly.
→ What’s the best cheese for melting?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but any good melting cheese like Colby Jack or mozzarella will do.
→ Can I make it ahead?
Definitely. Prepare it fully, let it cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
→ How do I make it lighter?
Use ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese for a leaner version.
→ Can I freeze Cheeseburger Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until hot.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Casserole is a true weeknight hero — hearty, cheesy, and bursting with classic flavors. It brings the comfort of a cheeseburger and the convenience of a one-pot meal together in perfect harmony. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli, and you’ve got an all-in-one dinner that’ll please everyone at the table. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never look at boxed Hamburger Helper the same way again.
