This Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, all in one skillet! Your family will love this homemade version of hamburger helper!
I am sure that my family has been eating this gouda, meaty macaroni every other week since I have been starting to make this Instant Pot Hamburger Helper. Well, now with the newfound ability to do this in one pot like Cheeseburger Casserole, my obsession is through the roof!
Ingredient’s
How to Make Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
he browned and crumbled ground beef is mixed with onions and then the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce together with tomato paste are stir-fried and well-mixed. Add the uncooked macaroni as well as beef broth together and stir.
Cover. Cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, mix, cover and cook until almost al dente for the pasta.
Add in the sour cream and half of the milk. Only add more milk if you want it to be more creamy. Reduce the heat to a simmer and sprinkle in 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Let it melt into a creamy sauce. Top with the rest of the cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve and enjoy!
PRO TIP”s
Avoid adding cold ingredients, like cheese, sour cream, and milk, to warm pasta. Doing so can cause separation, curdling, and a grainy texture.
Whenever possible, buy cheese in blocks and shred it yourself—it melts smoother and tastes better. I recommend Heluva Good! Sharp Cheddar for perfect melting.
Make Ahead Method
- Follow the recipe as directed, but cook the pasta covered for 7 minutes instead of 8.
- Stop right before adding the extra cheese on top.
- Let the casserole cool, then add the cheese.
- Refrigerate for up to two days.
- When ready to serve, bake covered at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Top with parsley and enjoy!
- Store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Why I Love Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
I love this cheeseburger casserole because it takes all flavors of the classic cheeseburger—beef, melty cheese, and savory seasonings—puts them all together in a cozy dish that’s just easy to make. A one-pot wonder, comforting yet satisfying, perfect for busy nights when I am craving something delicious without a fuss. Plus, my family devours it like there is no tomorrow, so it takes me back just a bit every time.
FAQ’s for Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Can I make Cheeseburger Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, refrigerate it for up to two days, and then bake when ready. If prepping in advance, cook the pasta slightly less to avoid overcooking when reheated.
How do I store leftovers, and how long do they last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to three months.
Can I add vegetables to Cheeseburger Casserole?
Absolutely! Try adding diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for extra flavor and nutrients. Just sauté them with the ground beef to soften.
What’s the best cheese to use in Cheeseburger Casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds great flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella or even pepper jack for a twist. Shredding cheese fresh is ideal for a smooth, creamy texture.
Can I make Cheeseburger Casserole without pasta?
Yes! You can substitute pasta with cauliflower or zucchini for a lower-carb option, adjusting the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
can i freez Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe?
Yes, you can freeze Cheeseburger Casserole! Here’s how:
Cool Completely: Let it cool completely before freezing. The ice crystals won’t have a chance to form that way.
Use an Airtight Container: Move the casserole into an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
Label and Date: Never forget to label the container with the name and date.
Freeze: It may be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat:
Thaw: Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 20-30 minutes. Remove cover and bake an additional 10 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Course: Appetizers, One pot, BakingCuisine: American5
servings8
minutes22
minutes300
kcal30
minutesThis is the ultimate comfort food, all cooked in one pot over the stovetop. It’s cheesy, hearty, and a homemade take on Hamburger Helper.
Ingredients
3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, at room temperature, divided
1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 (16 oz.) box elbow macaroni, uncooked
¾ cup sour cream, at room temperature
½ cup whole milk, at room temperature
Chopped parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Shred the cheese and set it aside to reach room temperature for easier mixing later.
- Season the ground beef with your preferred amount of salt and pepper.
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef with diced onions. Drain any excess fat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste until well combined.
- Pour in beef broth and add uncooked macaroni, stirring to mix. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium to medium-low heat.
- Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, stir briefly, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the pasta is just al dente.
- Lower the heat to a simmer.
- Mix in sour cream and half of the milk, adding more if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Gradually add 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar, stirring until it melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Top with the remaining cheese, cover the pot, and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve!
Notes
- Whole milk is recommended for a creamier texture, but you can also use lower-fat milk if preferred.
For added cheeseburger flavor, mix in a teaspoon of ketchup and yellow mustard while the pasta is cooking. A touch of dill pickle relish can also be added at the end.
Make-Ahead Method
To prep the casserole in advance, follow the recipe but cook the pasta covered for 7 minutes instead of 8.
Stop at step #10, just before adding the extra cheese on top.
Allow the casserole to cool, then add the cheese.
Refrigerate for up to two days.
When ready to bake, place it in a 350°F oven, covered, for 15 minutes.
Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Garnish with parsley and serve!
Nutrition Facts
5 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories811
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
53g
82%
- Saturated Fat 28g 140%
- Cholesterol 167mg 56%
- Sodium 1390mg 58%
- Potassium 671mg 20%
- Total Carbohydrate
36g
12%
- Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 44g 88%
- Calcium 683%
- Iron 3.6%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
