Indulge in the perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and satisfying flavors with this Ultimate Cheeseburger Casserole recipe. Inspired by the classic American cheeseburger, this casserole transforms the familiar ingredients into a deliciously hearty meal that’s easy to make, comforting, and perfect for any occasion. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and topped with a golden, crunchy layer of buttery breadcrumbs, this casserole is sure to be a family favorite. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds—burgers and casseroles—in one dish!
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for extra flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4-5 strips)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work well)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup pickles, chopped (optional, for an authentic burger taste)
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter. - Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, until fragrant and softened. - Season the Meat:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set aside. - Prepare the Casserole:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef mixture, milk, and both types of shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well combined. If desired, add in chopped pickles for a more burger-inspired taste. - Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. - Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the casserole, followed by the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. For added flavor, garnish with fresh chopped herbs, extra pickles, or even a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy this decadent, comfort-food masterpiece!