Cheeseburger Casserole with Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of pasta baked in a cheesy, savory sauce. This dish transforms ground beef, pasta, and cheese into a warm, filling casserole that the whole family will love.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep because it’s easy to make, versatile, and delivers all the satisfaction of a cheeseburger without the bun.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger—juicy beef, melted cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and flavorful seasonings—and makes it even more comforting with pasta.

It’s a one-dish meal that requires minimal effort but provides maximum flavor and satisfaction. The combination of creamy cheese, hearty beef, and tender pasta makes every bite indulgent yet familiar.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This casserole is a must-try because it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and easy to customize. It’s perfect for picky eaters, family dinners, or gatherings.

Every component works in harmony—the pasta absorbs the savory sauce, the ground beef adds richness, and the cheese creates a gooey, irresistible topping. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds, and leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time 15 minutes
Cooking Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories Approximately 550–600 calories per serving
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (elbow, rotini, or penne)
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1/4 cup pickles, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For Topping

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Optional: diced tomatoes or green onions for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook Pasta

• Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook Beef

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
• Add onions and garlic and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
• Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Prepare Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
• Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
• Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese until smooth.

5. Combine Ingredients

• In the skillet with beef, add ketchup, mustard, pickles (if using), salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
• Mix in cooked pasta and cheese sauce until evenly coated.

6. Assemble Casserole

• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese on top.

7. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve

• Garnish with diced tomatoes or green onions if desired. Serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook Pasta: Boil pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Brown Beef: Cook ground beef with onions and garlic, drain fat.
3. Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, add milk, thicken, and stir in cheese.
4. Combine: Mix beef, pasta, cheese sauce, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings.
5. Assemble: Transfer to baking dish, top with cheese.
6. Bake: 20–25 minutes at 350°F until bubbly.
7. Serve: Garnish and enjoy warm.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve hot straight from the oven.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Recipe Tips

• Use pasta that holds sauce well, like penne or rotini.
• Add diced pickles or relish to replicate the cheeseburger flavor.
• For extra richness, mix in some cream cheese with the cheese sauce.
• Avoid overcooking pasta in the initial boil as it will cook further in the oven.

Variations

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

• Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for extra smoky flavor.

Mushroom Cheeseburger Casserole

• Sauté mushrooms with onions and garlic for a rich, earthy twist.

Spicy Version

• Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Low-Carb Version

• Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the casserole (uncooked) in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet for browning beef
• Saucepan for cheese sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater if using block cheese

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze before baking for up to 2 months.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, corn, or peas can be added for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Casserole with Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish that captures the essence of a cheeseburger in a warm, cheesy pasta bake. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for families or meal prep, this casserole is a versatile recipe that satisfies cravings and brings everyone to the table. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves cheesy, hearty, and satisfying meals.