Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger—beef, cheese, tomatoes, and pasta—into one hearty, baked meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and offers a satisfying twist on a traditional favorite, delivering cheesy, savory goodness in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarliccloveselbow macaroni (or other short pasta)canned diced tomatoes (with juices)tomato pastebeef brothcheddard milkmustardsaltblack pepperolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Add in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, mustard, beef broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Stir in the cooked pasta and mix to combine evenly.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesBaking time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 60–65 minutes

Variations

Add chopped pickles before serving for a true cheeseburger flavor.

Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.

Mix in cooked bacon for extra smokiness.

Top with crispy onions or breadcrumbs for added texture.

Swap cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Cheeseburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely, just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up in the bake.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add spicy elements—feel free to stir in hot sauce or chili flakes if you prefer heat.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas work well in this casserole.

What type of mustard should I use?

Yellow mustard is classic, but Dijon or spicy brown can add depth.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda for variation.

Does this taste like an actual cheeseburger?

It captures the essence of a cheeseburger with beef, cheese, and tangy tomato-mustard flavors.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Don’t overcook it initially—al dente pasta holds up better during baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish or divide into two pans for freezing or sharing.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very! The cheesy, beefy flavors are a hit with most kids.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Casserole is a deliciously easy way to satisfy your burger cravings with minimal fuss. Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers all the savory satisfaction of a cheeseburger in a comforting, cheesy bake. Try it once, and it may become a staple in your dinner lineup.