If you’re searching for a comforting dinner that comes together in a flash, this Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is an absolute lifesaver. It brings all the cozy, familiar flavors of a cheeseburger in one satisfying baked dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family meals. Tender ground beef mingles with creamy cheddar cheese soup and elbow macaroni to create a cheesy, savory casserole that’s both hearty and simple. With a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone will beg you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in making the casserole irresistibly tasty. From the savory ground beef to the creamy cheddar cheese soup, each component adds a layer of flavor, texture, or richness that brings this dish to life.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides the hearty base and classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Small onion, chopped (1): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- Cooked elbow macaroni (2 cups): The perfect pasta shape for soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
- Condensed cheddar cheese soup (10.5 oz can): Brings creamy, cheesy richness without extra effort.
- Milk (½ cup): Lightens the cheese soup mixture for a smooth sauce consistency.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Tops the casserole with melty, gooey cheesiness.
- Ketchup (¼ cup): Adds a touch of tangy sweetness reminiscent of classic cheeseburger condiments.
- Mustard (1 tbsp): Injects a subtle sharpness to balance flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
- Chopped pickles (¼ cup, optional): Offers a crunchy, tangy contrast topping the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing the onion and beef to perfection.
How to Make Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden perfection.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the chopped onion and ground beef. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onion softens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat so the casserole isn’t greasy.
Step 3: Stir in the Sauce Ingredients
Next, mix in the ketchup, mustard, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and milk right into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. This creamy, tangy sauce is where the magic happens, tying all the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine with Cooked Pasta
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet, stirring everything until the pasta is fully coated in the cheesy, flavorful sauce. This step ensures every bite is loaded with cheeseburger goodness.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. For an extra wow factor, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. If you love that classic cheeseburger crunch, scatter the chopped pickles over the cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow everything to set.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole is rich and flavorful on its own, adding fresh garnishes can elevate the dish even further. Try topping individual servings with diced tomatoes, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast. These touches brighten the hearty casserole and add freshness.
Side Dishes
Complement this quick casserole with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness. Simple green beans, a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, or roasted broccoli are all fantastic choices to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy while keeping it casual, serve portions in mini cast iron skillets or individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and pickles. For a fun twist, pair with slider buns to turn the casserole into sandwich bites at the table. Presentation is all about adding a personal, inviting touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
This casserole freezes great. To freeze, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or transfer portions into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, though the oven helps keep the texture better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce well, penne, rotini, or shell pasta would work wonderfully too. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy during baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a tasty vegetarian alternative that keeps the hearty texture intact without the meat.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance without baking?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, just pop it straight into a preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.
Can I make this casserole with other types of cheese?
By all means! While cheddar gives a classic cheeseburger flavor, feel free to mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a new flavor twist you love.
What’s the best way to keep the casserole from getting soggy?
Draining the cooked beef well and using al dente pasta helps prevent sogginess. Also, avoid overmixing the sauce and pasta mixture to maintain a balanced texture before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites when I want a fuss-free, satisfying meal that pleases everyone at the table. Its blend of comfort, cheesiness, and smart simplicity is perfect for busy days but still feels like a special treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how wonderful weeknight dinners can be with a little creativity and a lot of flavor!
Print
Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a casserole. Ground beef and onions are simmered with ketchup, mustard, and cheddar cheese soup, then mixed with cooked pasta and baked with a cheesy topping. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
Pasta
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)
Cheese & Dairy
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Condiments & Seasonings
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- ¼ cup pickles, chopped (optional)
Cooking Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole later.
- Cook Beef & Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, cooking and stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix Ingredients: To the browned beef and onions, stir in ¼ cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, one 10.5 oz can of condensed cheddar cheese soup, and ½ cup milk. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine with Pasta: Add 2 cups of cooked elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta) to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the cheesy beef mixture.
- Assemble: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If you like, add ¼ cup chopped pickles on top for an extra tangy flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; macaroni works best for texture.
- Pickles are optional but add a nice tang to replicate cheeseburger flavors.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese soup with homemade cheese sauce if desired.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat covered in the oven or microwave before serving.
