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To make this tasty dish, gather these main ingredients: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 small onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup dill pickles, diced - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta - 2 cups beef broth - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil These ingredients create a rich and hearty flavor. The ground beef gives protein, while the cheese adds creaminess. The pasta makes it filling and comforting. You can elevate your casserole with these optional toppings: - Additional shredded cheddar cheese - Crispy bacon bits - Sliced green onions - Fresh herbs like parsley or chives These toppings add flavor and texture. They also make your dish look more appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens the plate. Pair your cheeseburger casserole with these side dishes: - Simple green salad - Garlic bread - Steamed broccoli - French fries These sides complement the casserole well. They offer balance and variety to your meal. Enjoying a side can enhance your overall dining experience. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key. A hot oven helps the casserole cook evenly. While your oven heats, gather your tools. You will need a large skillet and a baking dish. A 9x13 inch dish works best here. In your large skillet, add one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add one small onion, finely diced, and two cloves of minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear. Next, add one pound of ground beef. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. The beef should be brown with no pink spots. If there is fat, drain it off carefully. Stir in one tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and one teaspoon of mustard. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well. In a large pot, combine one cup of elbow macaroni and two cups of beef broth. Bring this to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat. Let it simmer for 7-8 minutes. Check the macaroni; it should be tender but still firm. This is called al dente. When it’s ready, you can move on to the next step. To boost flavor, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and onion make a big difference. Sauté them until soft to release their natural sweetness. Add Worcestershire sauce for depth and richness. This sauce brings a savory umami flavor that enhances the beef. Also, mix in some mustard. It gives a nice tang and brightens the dish. To keep your pasta firm, cook it al dente. Boil it in beef broth for extra flavor. Watch the cooking time closely. You want the pasta tender but not mushy. Drain it well before mixing it with the beef. This helps keep the texture just right. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. When serving, scoop the casserole onto plates or bowls. Make sure to show off that melted cheese on top. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This not only looks great but also adds freshness. Pair your casserole with a crisp salad or some warm bread. This makes a perfect meal for family and friends. Pro Tips Use Lean Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef (such as 90% lean) will reduce excess grease in your casserole, making it healthier and preventing a greasy texture. Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile and added creaminess. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for meal prep. Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation by adding sliced green onions or crispy bacon bits along with the parsley for a burst of flavor and color. {{image_4}} You can change the cheese to mix up the taste. Try using mozzarella for a milder flavor. Crumbled feta adds a tangy kick. Pepper jack gives a spicy twist. For a rich taste, go with gouda. Each choice creates a new experience in your cheeseburger casserole. If you need to swap ingredients, it’s easy to adapt. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try lentils or a meat substitute. Gluten-free pasta works well if you avoid gluten. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Toppings can make your casserole even better. Add crispy bacon bits for crunch. Sliced jalapeños bring heat and flavor. For a fresh touch, try diced bell peppers or green onions. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for added texture. Get creative and make it your own! To store leftover cheeseburger casserole, wait for it to cool. Then, place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until it’s hot all the way through. This method keeps the cheese nice and melty. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short intervals, checking often to avoid overheating. To freeze your cheeseburger casserole, first let it cool completely. Cut it into portions for easy serving later. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps the casserole fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This way, you’ll enjoy that comforting taste just like fresh! If you want a different meat, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Both work well and keep the dish light. You can also try plant-based options like lentils or beans. These choices add protein and fiber. Just make sure to season them to keep the flavor strong. Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Just cook it without baking. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed. This way, you save time on busy days. Cheeseburger casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cheeseburger casserole is a fun and easy meal to make. You learned about the main ingredients and cooking steps to create a tasty dish. We discussed ways to enhance flavor and avoid soggy pasta. Plus, you saw some great variations to suit your taste and diet. Remember, leftovers can be stored or frozen for later enjoyment. I hope you feel ready to try this recipe. Your family will love it! Enjoy every bite.

Cheeseburger Casserole Delight

A comforting and cheesy casserole that combines ground beef, macaroni, and a medley of flavors for a delightful meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup dill pickles, diced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup elbow macaroni pasta
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon mustard (either yellow or Dijon)
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's ready when your casserole is assembled.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened.
  • Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, using a spatula to break it up into small pieces. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned through. If there's excess fat, carefully drain it off.
  • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
  • In a large pot, combine the elbow macaroni and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 7-8 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender but still al dente.
  • Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced pickles, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture, combining thoroughly.
  • Transfer this hearty beef and macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for that inviting cheesy crust.
  • Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a beautiful golden color.
  • When done baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Scoop portions onto plates or into bowls, ensuring some of the melted cheese and garnished parsley are visible for a fresh finish.
Keyword casserole, cheeseburger, comfort food