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Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger Casserole
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This Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish combining juicy ground beef, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and tender pasta baked together for a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 oz egg noodles or preferred pasta
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup tomato sauce or ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons pickle relish (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your egg noodles or preferred pasta until they are al dente, then drain and set aside. This base is essential for soaking up all the delicious flavors that will come later.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a less greasy casserole. This step ensures your casserole is rich but not heavy.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the beef and cook until softened and fragrant, which adds layers of savory sweetness and aroma.
  4. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce or ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, and optional pickle relish. Allow this mixture to simmer for a few minutes, melding flavors beautifully before combining with pasta and cheese.
  5. Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the beef mixture and a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese. This creates a creamy, cheesy consistency that’s irresistible.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Drain the beef well to remove excess grease for a cleaner taste and less watery casserole.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheeseburger flavor and excellent melting qualities.
  • Don’t overcook pasta; keep noodles slightly firm to avoid mushiness after baking.
  • Let the sauce simmer briefly before mixing to deepen the flavors.
  • Allow casserole to cool slightly before slicing for easier serving and better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef casserole, family meal, baked pasta

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/cheeseburger-casserole/