Description

This Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal combining juicy ground beef, melted sharp cheddar cheese, tender elbow macaroni, and a tangy tomato-mustard sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding the family, this casserole delivers all the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a creamy, cheesy baked dish with minimal prep and easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Vegetables

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
1/2 cup diced onions
Optional: diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or jalapeños for variations

Pasta & Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)

Sauce & Seasonings

1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika

Optional Garnishes

Sliced or chopped pickles
Chopped green onions
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for topping (optional)

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onions: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook 1 lb ground beef along with 1/2 cup diced onions. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until beef is fully browned and onions are softened. Drain excess fat.
Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, cook 2 cups elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, being careful not to overcook.
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup with 1 tablespoon mustard and any additional seasonings desired. This sauce provides the classic tangy cheeseburger flavor.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the browned beef and onions, cooked pasta, and the sauce mixture. Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, reserving 1/2 cup for topping.
Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Optionally, add a breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter for extra crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Notes

Use sharp aged cheddar cheese for bold flavor and perfect melting.
Do not overcook pasta before baking to avoid mushy texture.
Drain excess fat from the beef well to prevent a greasy casserole.
Add a crunchy breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter if desired.
Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg