Cheeseburger Casserole
If you’re craving the rich flavors of a cheeseburger but want a dish that’s easy to prepare, look no further than cheeseburger casserole. This delightful recipe combines ground beef, cheese, and all the classic burger toppings into a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This is based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on specific brands used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding the diced onion.
- Drain excess fat and stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and combine well.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef and pasta, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want to lighten the dish, consider using lean ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese soup with a homemade cheese sauce for a fresher taste. Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
Cheeseburger casserole pairs excellently with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. For extra flair, serve with pickles and sliced tomatoes on the side, reminiscent of classic burger toppings.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the ground beef; it should be just browned.
- Make sure to drain excess grease to avoid a soggy casserole.
- Use enough cheese for optimal flavor and creaminess.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to set.
- Don’t skip the milk in the soup mixture; it adds necessary moisture.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Top with crispy bacon bits for a delicious crunch.
- Use leftover cooked burgers for a quick and easy option.
FAQs
Can I make cheeseburger casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option for meal prep!
What can I use instead of pasta?
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a substitute for pasta. They will absorb the flavors beautifully.
Can I freeze cheeseburger casserole?
Yes, cheeseburger casserole can be frozen. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container, and it will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the beef mixture before baking.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The flavors of cheeseburger casserole are familiar and appealing to kids, making it a great family meal option.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can 10.5 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups cooked pasta elbow or rotini
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding the diced onion.
- Drain excess fat and stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and combine well.
- Pour the soup mixture over the beef and pasta, stirring to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
