Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and this one-pot version is so simple even the busiest home cook can whip it up. Inspired by the hearty, family-friendly recipes you might find in Pioneer Woman’s kitchen, this dish brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a creamy, satisfying casserole. Forget about individual burgers – this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd and minimizing cleanup!
A skillet with a wooden spoon scooping up Cheeseburger Casserole
This recipe takes the deliciousness of a juicy cheeseburger and transforms it into an easy-to-make casserole that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal solution, especially when time is short but you still want to put a homemade, comforting dinner on the table. If you love the flavors of classic American comfort food, this cheeseburger casserole will become a new family favorite.
Why This Cheeseburger Casserole is a Family Favorite
What makes this cheeseburger casserole stand out? It’s all about ease and flavor. Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and less fuss. It’s also incredibly adaptable – you can easily customize it with your family’s favorite cheeseburger toppings. Plus, it’s a great way to use simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a meal that everyone will love, echoing the practical and delicious approach of Pioneer Woman-style cooking.
Overhead view of ingredients for cheeseburger casserole
Simple Ingredients for a Hearty Casserole
You won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
- Ground Beef: The heart of our cheeseburger flavor. 85% lean ground beef works perfectly.
- Elbow Macaroni: Uncooked macaroni goes right into the pot, making it a true one-pot meal.
- Onion & Garlic: Aromatic base for flavor. Yellow onion and fresh garlic are recommended.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth and helps cook the macaroni.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for that classic cheeseburger taste. Shred it yourself for the best melt!
- Worcestershire Sauce & Tomato Paste: Secret flavor boosters that enhance the savory notes.
- Sour Cream & Milk: For creaminess and that signature casserole texture. Room temperature is key!
- Salt, Pepper, and Parsley: Simple seasonings to bring everything together and fresh parsley for garnish.
Step-by-Step to Cheeseburger Casserole Perfection
This recipe is straightforward and quick. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious cheeseburger casserole:
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add Garlic and Flavor: Stir in minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine with Macaroni and Broth: Add beef broth and uncooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir well to combine, ensuring macaroni is submerged.
- Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente: Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, stir, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until macaroni is just al dente.
Macaroni being cooked in a dutch oven for cheeseburger casserole.
- Make it Creamy and Cheesy: Reduce heat to low. Stir in room temperature sour cream and half of the milk. Gradually add most of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping), stirring until melted and creamy. Add remaining milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Top with Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the casserole. Cover and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Elbow macaroni in a dutch oven being topped with shredded cheese for cheeseburger casserole.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole
- Room Temperature Dairy: Make sure your sour cream, milk, and cheese are at room temperature before adding them to the hot pasta. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Freshly Shredded Cheese: Always shred your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting as smoothly.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the macaroni until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Make Ahead and Freezer Friendly Instructions
Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time! Cook the pasta for slightly less time (about 7 minutes covered). Stop before adding the final cheese topping. Let it cool, then top with cheese, cover, and refrigerate for up to two days. To bake, cook in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven, covered, for 15 minutes, then uncovered for 10 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Freezer Meal: Cheeseburger casserole is also freezer-friendly. Prepare as directed, let cool completely, and then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed above (you may need to add a little extra baking time if starting from cold).
overhead view of a large skillet filled with warm cheeseburger casserole with a white background next to parsley and a wooden spoon.
Serving Suggestions
This cheeseburger casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dinner with some simple sides:
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad or a classic Caesar salad provides a light and refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or peas are healthy and easy vegetable options.
- Garlic Bread: For extra comfort food goodness, serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks.
- Pickles and Toppings: Offer a plate of classic cheeseburger toppings like sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and extra cheese for everyone to customize their serving.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cheeseburger casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. For longer storage, freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
This Cheeseburger Casserole Pioneer Woman style recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in every bite of this simple, one-pot casserole!
