Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick and hearty dish that combines the savory goodness of ground beef, pasta, and cheese in one simple casserole. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dinner. It offers all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a convenient casserole form!

Ingredients

1 pound of ground beef
2 cans of tomato soup
3 cups of cheese (any variety will work)
1 pound of shells (or any pasta shape of your choice)

Directions

Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
In a separate pot, cook the shells according to the package instructions. Once cooked, reserve some pasta water for later and then drain the pasta.
Combine the cooked beef, drained pasta, and two cans of tomato soup in a large mixing bowl. Add some of the reserved pasta water to create a smooth, creamy mixture.
Mix in 2 ½ cups of the cheese, leaving the remaining ½ cup for the topping.
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian twist on this casserole.
Spicy Cheeseburger Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: Crumble some cooked bacon into the casserole for an extra smoky flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any short pasta, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini, in place of the shells.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Can I use a different kind of cheese? Absolutely! You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese of your preference. A combination of cheeses can also add extra flavor.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Prepare it up until the baking step, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Is this recipe gluten-free? No, this recipe contains regular pasta. However, you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Yes, feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add spicy ingredients like hot sauce, chili powder, or diced green chilies to the casserole mix.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning? Make sure to cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove the foil only when adding the final cheese topping.
What should I serve with this casserole? A simple side salad or some garlic bread complements this casserole nicely. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a cheesy, baked casserole form. It’s a perfect meal for busy nights when you want something quick and comforting. You can customize it with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or even a spicy twist. Enjoy this satisfying dish with your family or guests!