Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that combines the best of two favorites—cheeseburgers and pasta—you’re in for a real treat. This Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights and casual get-togethers because it’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of savory. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe work together for a rich and satisfying dish. The elbow macaroni is perfect for soaking up that cheesy, creamy sauce, while the seasoning balances the beef to deliver maximum flavor in every bite.

• Elbow macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
• Ground beef: I prefer an 80:20 ratio for juicy, flavorful meat that browns nicely.
• Oregano: Adds a subtle, herbaceous note that complements the beef.
• Sea salt: Essential for seasoning both the pasta water and the beef mixture.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground for a little mild heat and depth.
• Chili powder: Brings a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
• Ground cumin: Adds a warm, smoky undertone that makes the casserole extra tasty.
• Butter: For sautéing onions and adding richness.
• Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and texture when cooked down.
• Minced garlic: For that classic savory punch.
• Tomato puree: Gives the casserole a light tang and color.
• Heavy cream: Rich and velvety base that makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
• Chicken stock: Adds flavor depth and helps balance the richness.
• Dried parsley: Light herb flavor and a nice touch of green.
• Dried basil: Enhances the Italian-inspired flavors within the dish.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Smooth melting cheese that adds creaminess.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp, tangy flavor that makes the topping perfect.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to tweak for your own tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to get creative!

• Use ground turkey or chicken: When I’m aiming for a leaner option, swapping out the beef still yields a delicious casserole.
• Add veggies: I like stirring in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms before baking for extra texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you want a little heat.
• Gluten-free pasta: Works perfectly if you use your favorite gluten-free elbow macaroni for a crowd with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Pasta to Perfection

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—remember, adding enough salt to the water is key for flavoring the pasta from the inside out (I use about 1 tablespoon salt per 2 quarts water). Once boiling, toss in your elbow macaroni and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 9 to 11 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente—meaning it’s mostly cooked but still a little firm when you bite it, so it won’t turn mushy after baking. Then drain and set it aside while you cook the beef.

Step 2: Brown the Beef with Spices

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Sprinkle in oregano, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, and ground cumin—this combo is what gives the casserole that irresistible “cheeseburger” vibe. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Browning well here locks in flavor, so don’t rush this part!

Step 3: Add Butter, Onions, Garlic & Tomato Puree

Once the beef is browned, stir in the butter, chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, and tomato puree. The butter adds richness, and the onions and garlic bring sweetness and aroma. Cook everything together until the onion softens slightly and everything blends nicely—this usually takes just a few minutes.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Cream, Stock, Herbs & Cheese

Add your cooked pasta right into the beef mixture and stir everything together. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock to create a luscious sauce. Sprinkle in dried parsley and basil for that herbaceous note, then fold in 1 1/2 cups of Monterey Jack and 1 cup of cheddar cheese until it’s all irresistibly creamy and cheesy.

Step 5: Bake Until Melty and Golden

Transfer the entire mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish—you don’t need to grease it, so that saves a step! Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly over the top for that beautiful golden crust. Bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and browns just right.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

You can serve this right away if you want it looser and creamier, or let it sit for 10 minutes to firm up and hold its shape better. Either way, it’s delicious—warm, cheesy, and comforting. It’s always a winner when I bring it to family dinners or have friends over.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving—it adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that cuts through the richness nicely. Sometimes, a dollop of sour cream or a few pickles on the side help mimic that iconic cheeseburger flavor even more.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or some roasted veggies like asparagus or broccoli to balance out the indulgence. For a more casual meal, crunchy garlic bread is always a hit in my house.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with fresh herbs and a little extra shredded cheese for a really fancy touch. You could also add sliced cherry tomatoes on top before baking for a pop of color and flavor. It’s great for potlucks or family dinners because it’s super comforting but feels a bit elevated when presented nicely.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Whenever I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole keeps well for 3 to 4 days, and reheating is a breeze. Just make sure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe many times and been super happy with the results. Just pop it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, I prefer to use the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through—this keeps the cheese gooey and the pasta from drying out. If I’m in a rush, the microwave works fine, but I try to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole Recipe is honestly one of those hidden gems I’m so happy to share. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort wrapped in one dish, and once you make it, you’ll see why it’s become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s a reliably satisfying meal that’s pretty foolproof. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something incredibly delicious!

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