Cheeseburger Casserole

The aroma of cheesy goodness and savory ground beef brings back memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. Cheeseburger casserole became a staple during these events, where laughter mingled with the delightful scent of a hearty meal cooking away. Using humble ingredients, this dish transforms into comfort food that everyone loves.

With just a pound of ground beef and a few other ingredients, you can create a satisfying casserole that delights not only the taste buds but also warms the heart. The blend of flavors from the beef, cheese, and pasta creates a symphony that resonates with nostalgia. Watching the melted cheddar ooze into every nook of the pasta feels like a warm embrace, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual weekends.

Every bite of this cheeseburger casserole carries a sense of togetherness. It’s not just about the food but the shared experience of cooking and enjoying a meal that brings people closer. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into creating this delicious comfort food staple!

Cheeseburger Casserole Fundamentals

Preparation/Setup

Bringing your cheeseburger casserole to life requires just a few straightforward steps. Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, diced onion, uncooked pasta, beef broth, shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Having everything within reach streamlines the cooking process.

Use a large pot to cook the ground beef and onion. Cook them over medium heat until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, which ensures it’s safely cooked. Once the meat is fully browned, draining any excess fat is crucial to keep the casserole flavorful without being greasy.

Ingredients

Let’s explore the ingredients you’ll need for this hearty dish.

• 1 pound ground beef: Forms the base of the casserole, providing protein and flavor.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow or shells): Serves as the base, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• 2 cups beef broth: Injects moisture and enhances the beefiness of the dish.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, bringing everything together with creamy goodness.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh): Introduces a bright and juicy contrast to the richness of the dish.
• 2 tablespoons ketchup: Offers a touch of sweetness and tang.
• 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a zip that elevates the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Directions

Now let’s walk through the steps to create this cozy cheeseburger casserole:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
5. Serve warm.

Cheeseburger Casserole Technique

Tips/Tricks

Cooking cheeseburger casserole perfectly involves a few handy tips. One recommended tip is to keep an eye on the pasta while it simmers. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from the overall experience. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.

Another trick is to use a combination of cheese types for added flavor complexity. While cheddar is classic, blending in Monterey Jack or mozzarella can enhance creaminess. Just remember—not every cheese melts the same way, so ensure your choices complement each other.

Timing

Timing is everything in keeping the pasta al dente while ensuring the beef is cooked through. Start by monitoring the time closely after bringing your dish to a boil. Reducing the heat to a gentle simmer prevents rapid cooking and helps meld flavors beautifully.

Cheeseburger Casserole Variations

Perfecting Results

To refine your cheeseburger casserole, consider adjusting the ingredient quantities based on your taste preferences. Love a punch of spice? Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Not a fan of beef? Substitute ground turkey or chicken to create a lighter version while keeping the essence of this beloved dish.

Experiment with various pasta shapes as well! Shells and elbows absorb the sauce well, but penne or fusilli could add a fun twist in both texture and presentation.

Troubleshooting

If your casserole turns out too dry, try adding a bit more beef broth or a splash of water while it simmers. This extra moisture can reinvigorate the dish, making it juicier. Conversely, if it seems too soupy, ensure that you allow extra time for simmering without the lid to evaporate some of the liquid.

Cheeseburger Casserole Serving & Storage

Serving/Presentation

Presentation plays an essential role in making your cheeseburger casserole irresistible. Serve it directly from the pot into individual bowls or a family-style dish to encourage sharing. Sprinkle extra cheese on top right before serving for an appealing melted finish. Adding chopped parsley or green onions for garnish can elevate its visual appeal, adding a pop of color.

Pairings/Storage

This casserole is versatile. Pair it with a crisp green salad to balance the rich flavors. Garlic bread makes a delightful side, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheesy goodness.

For storage, allow leftovers to cool and transfer them to an airtight container. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven, adding a little splash of broth to revive its creamy texture.

In summary, cheeseburger casserole is not just a meal—it’s a comforting hug on a plate, inviting friends and family to share in the joy of homemade dining. Each bite takes you back to cherished moments, all while creating new ones around the table. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Cheeseburger Casserole

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting cheeseburger casserole made with ground beef, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow or shells)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the uncooked pasta, beef broth, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
5. Serve warm.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses. Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain a pleasing texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Casserole, Cheeseburger, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Recipe