The Ultimate Cheeseburger Casserole Guide

If there's one comfort food that combines the best of two worlds, it's the cheeseburger casserole. This homestyle dish takes all the classic elements of a cheeseburger—ground beef, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings—and bakes them into a hearty one-pan meal. It's a crowd-pleaser that is quick to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Casserole Base

1 pound (450g) of ground beef (or a plant-based alternative)
1 medium onion, diced
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon of ketchup
1 cup (240ml) of beef or vegetable broth
8 ounces (225g) of macaroni or pasta of your choice, cooked and drained
2 cups (200g) of shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)

Optional Toppings and Mix-Ins

Sliced pickles
Diced tomatoes
Chopped lettuce
Bacon, cooked and crumbled
Sliced mushrooms
Shredded mozzarella cheese for additional meltiness
Jalapenos for a spicy kick

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) casserole dish and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Season and Flavor

Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Stir in the Dijon mustard and ketchup.
Add the broth and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Place the cooked macaroni in the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
Pour the beef mixture over the macaroni and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef.
If you're adding any optional mix-ins, now is the time to sprinkle them over the cheese.

Cooking Instructions

Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Rest and Set

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Complete the Meal

Serve your cheeseburger casserole in deep plates or bowls.
Garnish with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce.
For a well-rounded dinner, pair the casserole with a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette or a side of crisp garlic bread.

Customization Tips

Make It Your Own

Jazz up your casserole by using a blend of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Adventurous eaters might enjoy adding a layer of creamy mac and cheese (think of it as a double cheeseburger version!)
For a lighter option, swap out the macaroni with zucchini noodles or cooked cauliflower.

Dietary Considerations

To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra firm tofu.
Those on a low-carb eating plan can use cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Storage and Reheating

Save for Later

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheat with Care

To reheat, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.
For a quicker option, microwave individual portions in 1-minute increments until heated through, stirring in between.

Conclusion

There you have it, the ultimate cheeseburger casserole guide. It's a dish that's both nostalgic and novel, comforting and convenient. Whether you follow the recipe to a T or customize it to your heart's content, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your household. Now, it's time to roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and savor the aroma of a meal that brings the joy of a classic cheeseburger right to your dinner table. Enjoy!