Cheeseburger Casserole
Are you craving the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger but want a dish that’s easy to prepare and serve? Look no further than this cheeseburger casserole! This comforting and hearty meal combines ground beef, savory spices, and gooey cheese, all baked into a delightful casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gathering with friends and family. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will surely become a family favorite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 8 ounces of pasta (elbow or rotini)
– 2 cups milk
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g of protein, 30g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. Please note that these values are based on using lean ground beef and regular cheese.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
5. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
7. Combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture in the skillet.
8. Pour the milk and egg mixture over the pasta and beef, mixing thoroughly.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
10. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize this casserole by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef, using gluten-free pasta, or adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This cheeseburger casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a more festive touch, serve with pickles and coleslaw on the side to enhance the burger experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; cook to al dente.
- Not browning the beef completely may affect flavor.
- Using too much cheese can make it greasy.
- Forget to season the mixture can lead to blandness.
- Not letting it rest after baking can make it fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavors.
- Add diced tomatoes for extra moisture and flavor.
- Top with crispy fried onions for added crunch.
FAQs
Can I make cheeseburger casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving for the best results.
What can I use instead of pasta?
You can substitute pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure it is fully cooled before sealing in an airtight container.
Is it possible to use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used in place of ground beef for a healthier option.
Conclusion
This cheeseburger casserole is not only a delightful twist on a classic favorite, but it’s also a convenient and satisfying meal for any occasion. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the comforting taste of a cheeseburger in a cozy casserole form!
Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 ounces of pasta elbow or rotini
- 2 cups milk
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce; mix well.
- In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk and eggs.
- Combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture in the skillet.
- Pour the milk and egg mixture over the pasta and beef, mixing thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.