4 Ingredient Mounjaro Recipe – Step-by-step process showing lemon, ginger, and honey being mixed into a detox drink

Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings together all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a single dish. Picture this: a chilly evening, the aroma of sizzling ground beef mingling with the savory scent of garlic and onions wafting through your kitchen, making you feel right at home. This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple. Packed with delicious layers and creamy cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be put together in just a bit of time, making it one of the easiest family-friendly dinners you’ll ever make.
Crowd-Pleasing: With flavors reminiscent of your favorite cheeseburger, this dish is sure to delight everyone from kids to adults.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything from sautéing the beef to mixing with pasta can be done in one skillet, so clean-up is a breeze!
Creamy Comfort: Layers of gooey cheddar and mozzarella make every bite a super creamy delight that you’ll crave again and again.
Customizable: Easy to adapt, you can throw in your favorite veggies or switch up the flavors to suit your taste.

Gather These Simple Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole, you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked pasta shells
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Non-stick cooking spray or butter
Fresh parsley or chopped pickles (optional garnish)

Let’s Make It Together

Now, let’s dive into the cozy, mouthwatering process of creating this delicious casserole!

Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Be sure to drain any excess grease for a leaner dish.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the finely diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let this simmer for 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Combine with Pasta: Add your drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with that rich, meaty sauce.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
Layer the Casserole: Layer half of the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat with the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the casserole is golden and bubbly.
Serve It Up: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped pickles if desired for that extra touch.

Delicious Variations to Try

This casserole is already a winner, but here are some fun twists you can try to make it your own:

Veggie-Packed: Add some fresh spinach or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture for an extra health boost that everyone will enjoy.
Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a spoon of hot sauce to give your casserole a zesty flair.
Substitute Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese types like pepper jack for a spicy undertone or Gouda for a rich, creamy texture.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme into the sauce for a fragrant, homemade touch.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and store it in the fridge. Pop it in the oven when you’re ready for dinner!
Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or you can freeze it for an easy meal later on.
Easy Slicing: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain its shape for a beautiful presentation.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 430
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 24g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 820mg

Common Questions Answered

Can I make this ahead? Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance, just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to swap the meat or add your choice of veggies for variety.
How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How long does it last? When frozen, this casserole can last up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Wrapping It Up

This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines comfort and convenience in every cheesy, delicious bite. It makes for perfect family dinners or quick weeknight meals without compromising on flavor. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking!