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Cheeseburger Casserole with Pasta

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

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

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook Pasta : Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Assemble Casserole : Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese on top.
  • Bake : Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Serve : Garnish with diced tomatoes or green onions if desired. Serve warm.