Name: Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces dried elbow macaroni ((about 6 cups dry pasta)); 1.5 pounds ground beef ((80:20 preferred)); 2 teaspoons oregano; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoons butter; 0.5 cup chopped yellow onion; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 0.25 cup tomato puree; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 0.25 cup chicken stock; 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley; 0.5 teaspoon dried basil; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese ((divided)); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese ((divided))

Introduction to Cheeseburger Casserole

The Comfort of Homemade Food

When it comes to weeknight meals, nothing beats the comfort of homemade food. One dish that always seems to hit the spot is the cheeseburger casserole. This hearty dish combines all the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, inviting casserole that's perfect for busy professionals or families.

Imagine this: It's a chilly evening, you've just come home from work, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where this easy-to-make recipe shines! In just about 50 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. With its rich blend of ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender pasta, this dish is genuinely satisfying.

Not only does the cheeseburger casserole provide an easy solution for hectic nights, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. You can enjoy it for lunch the next day or store it in the freezer for nights when you need something quick. Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s get cooking and bring the essence of a classic cheeseburger right to your dining table! For more comforting dinner ideas, check out Simply Recipes' Comfort Food section.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Casserole

Essential ingredients to gather

To whip up a mouthwatering cheeseburger casserole, you’ll need to gather the following staples:

Elbow macaroni: 12 ounces adds that delightful chewiness.
Ground beef: 1.5 pounds for the perfect meaty base.
Spices: Grab oregano, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, and ground cumin to bring out those classic cheeseburger flavors.
Vegetables: Chop up half a cup of yellow onion and get one tablespoon of minced garlic for sweetness.
Creamy elements: A mix of heavy cream (1.5 cups) and chicken stock (¼ cup) will create that luscious sauce.
Cheeses: Use both Monterey Jack and cheddar for a cheesy, gooey topping.

Optional ingredients for a twist

Want to elevate your casserole? Consider these options:

Vegetables: Toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.
Condiments: Feel free to mix in a tablespoon of ketchup or mustard for that extra zing!

Experimenting can lead to a uniquely delicious cheeseburger casserole that’s all your own! Need more inspiration? Check out these cheesy recipes for creative ideas.

Preparing Cheeseburger Casserole

The cheeseburger casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that brings together classic flavors in a fun and easy way. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, let’s walk through the steps to prepare this comforting meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, start by gathering all of your ingredients. A well-organized kitchen makes for a smoother cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

12 ounces dried elbow macaroni (about 6 cups dry pasta)
1 ½ pounds ground beef (80:20 is ideal)
2 teaspoons oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons butter
½ cup chopped yellow onion
1 tablespoon minced garlic
¼ cup tomato puree
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¼ cup chicken stock
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon dried basil
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Boil the Pasta

Start your cheeseburger casserole by boiling the pasta. Fill a large pot with water, seasoning it with about one tablespoon of salt for every two quarts. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add your dry elbow macaroni. Cook for 9 to 11 minutes until it’s mostly tender but still has a little firm bite. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Cook the Beef with Spices

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add in your ground beef. Season it with oregano, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, and ground cumin. Cook while stirring occasionally until the beef browns and is no longer pink, which should take about 5 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma!

Mix in the Aromatics

Next, add in the butter, along with the chopped onions, minced garlic, and tomato puree. Stir until everything is well combined. The combination of these aromatics with the beef is where the magic happens, infusing flavor throughout the dish.

Combine Pasta and Beef

Once the beef mixture is ready, fold in the drained pasta along with the heavy cream, chicken stock, parsley, basil, and 1 ½ cups of both Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese. Stir everything until it's beautifully combined—this is truly the heart of your cheeseburger casserole.

Transfer to a Casserole Dish

Now it’s time to transfer the cheesy mixture into a 9x13-inch casserole dish. No need for greasing here! After that, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that delightful golden crust.

Bake Until Bubbly

Finally, pop the casserole into a preheated oven at 400°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully browned and bubbly. The aroma will be mouthwatering!

As you serve this comforting dish, remember that you can adjust the cooking time based on how you like your casserole—looser right away or firmer after a 10-minute cool down. Enjoy your homemade cheeseburger casserole! If you loved this recipe, consider checking Kitchen Counter for more delicious dinner ideas.

Variations on Cheeseburger Casserole

Vegetarian Cheeseburger Casserole

If you’re looking to swap out meat for a delicious plant-based option, a vegetarian cheeseburger casserole is a fantastic choice! Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or even a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu for extra protein. Enhance the flavors with bell peppers and your favorite spices to capture that classic cheeseburger taste without the meat. Trust me, even your meat-loving friends will be asking for seconds!

Spicy Cheeseburger Casserole

For those who love a kick, try a spicy cheeseburger casserole. Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the ground beef when cooking. You can also incorporate pepper jack cheese or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level. Serve with a side of cooling sour cream or guacamole for a delightful contrast that brings all the heat to life. Your taste buds will thank you for this fiery twist!

Looking for more fun variations? Check out these articles on spicy recipes and vegetarian options for fresh ideas!

Cooking tips for Cheeseburger Casserole

Make Ahead Tips

Want to simplify your dinner prep? You can assemble your cheeseburger casserole in advance! Prepare the dish up to step 6, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have a delicious casserole left over, don’t fret! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in separate containers; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Perfect for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners!

Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Casserole

Perfect Pairings with Sides

Amplify the flavor of your cheeseburger casserole by pairing it with some delightful sides. Consider serving a refreshing garden salad to balance the richness, or crispy air-fried potatoes for a delightful crunch. Sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli tossed with a hint of lemon also make a wonderful contrast, adding color and nutrients to your meal.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

This cheeseburger casserole is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. It shines at potlucks, where you can bask in compliments, or as a hearty meal during movie nights with friends. The best part? You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve. Enjoy effortless entertaining!

For more tips on sides that pair beautifully, check out this helpful guide.

Time details for Cheeseburger Casserole

Preparation time

The cheeseburger casserole starts with an easy 15 minutes of preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients and boiling the pasta.

Cooking time

After prepping, the casserole takes about 35 minutes to cook. This is when the magic happens—everything melds together beautifully in the oven!

Total time

In just 50 minutes, you'll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for a busy weeknight or casual gathering with friends!

Nutritional Information for Cheeseburger Casserole

When it comes to a hearty dish like cheeseburger casserole, understanding its nutritional profile is essential for making informed choices. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find in each serving:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 773 calories, making it a satisfying option for dinner.

Protein

You’ll get a solid 44g of protein per serving, thanks to the ground beef and cheeses, making it a great choice for muscle recovery and overall health.

Sodium

Watch your sodium intake, as this dish contains around 1,050mg of sodium per serving, primarily from cheese and seasoning. Balancing with fresh veggies on the side can help!

For more insights on nutritional guidelines, check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture. By pairing this comfort dish with a salad, you can enjoy a well-rounded meal every time!

FAQs about Cheeseburger Casserole

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is a classic choice for this cheeseburger casserole, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Shells, rotini, or penne work beautifully too. Just keep the cooking time in mind, as different shapes may require a slight adjustment!

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Storing your cheeseburger casserole is easy! Just place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, you can either pop it in the microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through—perfect for a quick post-work meal!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare your cheeseburger casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This is a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you want a comforting, homemade meal without the hassle.

For more tips on easy meal prep, check out this guide.

Conclusion on Cheeseburger Casserole

In conclusion, this cheeseburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together familiar flavors in a delightful way. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish offers both convenience and taste. Don’t forget to save leftovers for easy meals later! Enjoy your culinary adventure!