why make this recipe
This dish is simple and feels like a warm hug. It mixes burger taste with pasta and cheese. Kids and adults like it. It cooks fast and uses common ingredients. You can find another easy pasta bake idea like this pasta bake if you want more dinner ideas.
introduction
Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is a quick, comforting meal. It tastes like a cheeseburger but is easier to eat and share. You cook pasta, brown beef, mix with cheese and a few sauces, and bake it. This makes a hot, bubbly dish with simple flavors.
how to make Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
Follow the recipe steps below. Keep the sauce simple and the cheese melty. You can change small things like the cheese type or add veggies. If you like a twist, try a recipe like a chicken cordon bleu casserole for a different casserole idea.
Ingredients :
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pickles for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain it well.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat, stirring until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, milk, ketchup, mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste to make those flavors pop!
- Transfer the tasty mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s hot throughout and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Before serving, add some pickles on top for a fun twist! Enjoy your cheesy, comforting masterpiece with family and friends!
how to serve Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
Serve hot right from the oven. Add pickles on top if you like the cheeseburger taste. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pair well. Let each person add ketchup or extra mustard if they want.
how to store Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature for up to two hours. Cover tightly with foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave in portions.
tips to make Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
- Cook pasta al dente so it holds well in the bake.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the dish from getting greasy.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melt and flavor.
- Taste and add salt and pepper before baking.
- For different flavors, see ideas like creamy shrimp alfredo pasta.
- If you like a crisp top, add extra cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking.
variation (if any)
- Add diced bell peppers or cooked mushrooms with the onion for more veggies.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Stir in a little barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky note.
- Mix in cooked bacon pieces for extra flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works. Cook to package directions.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready and add a few extra minutes if cold.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes. Cool first, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and baking.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk or cheese?
A: Yes. The dish will be lighter but still tasty. You may lose a little richness.
Q: How do I avoid a soggy casserole?
A: Drain the pasta well and drain excess fat from the cooked beef. Do not add extra liquid beyond the milk called for.
Conclusion
For more cheeseburger pasta ideas and step-by-step pictures, check out Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole (Picky Eater Approved!). You can also read a similar take on this dish at Cheeseburger Pasta | Gimme Delicious.
Print
Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and comforting dish that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with pasta and cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mustard
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pickles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, then drain it well.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat, stirring until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, beef mixture, milk, ketchup, mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot throughout and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Add pickles on top before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Cook pasta al dente, drain excess fat from the beef, and use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cheeseburger, pasta casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal