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Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole: Creamy Comfort Food for Busy Nights

Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick one-pan meal ideal for busy nights, combining creamy textures and hearty ingredients in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for sautéing; substitute with vegetable oil if desired.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (93/7) Provides protein and flavor; can swap for turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Onion (diced) Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; can be replaced with shallots or omitted.
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Base of the casserole providing structure; use any pasta shape or a gluten-free alternative.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Adds moisture and richness; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Incorporates acidity and flavor; substitute with diced tomatoes or ketchup.
  • 1 cup Low Fat Milk Contributes creaminess; almond milk or coconut milk can be alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor; fresh garlic can be used (1-2 cloves, minced).
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adds warmth and depth; adjust quantity to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard For depth of flavor; Dijon mustard can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami flavor; soy sauce can be used in a pinch.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on dietary needs.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 cups Grated Cheddar Cheese Key cheese for creaminess; can use pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a twist.
  • 1 cup Half and Half Makes the dish richer; substituting heavy cream or evaporated milk also works.
For Garnishing
  • to taste Fresh Parsley/Chives Optional garnish for a fresh finish; use any fresh herb like basil or thyme.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 1 pound of ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Once the beef is cooked and the onions are softened, add 2 cups of elbow macaroni, 2 cups of beef broth, 1 cup of tomato sauce, and 1 cup of low-fat milk to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
  3. Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground mustard, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 4–5 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 12 minutes.
  5. When the pasta is fully cooked, remove the lid and pour in 1 cup of half and half, followed by 2 cups of grated cheddar cheese. Stir well until the cheese melts.
  6. Once everything is well-combined and creamy, remove the skillet from the heat. Scoop portions of the Cheeseburger Casserole onto plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 3 months.

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