If you’re searching for a dinner idea that’s comforting, easy to throw together, and guaranteed to make everyone happy, look no further than this cheeseburger casserole recipe. It’s one of those feel-good dishes that combines two favorites: the classic American cheeseburger and a cozy pasta bake. The result? A bubbly, cheesy, beefy casserole that’s loaded with flavor and loved by kids and adults alike.

In this guide, we’re breaking down every step you need to create a cheeseburger casserole that will have people lining up for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this meal is practically foolproof. With just a few ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll have a hearty, home-cooked meal on the table in under an hour.

Let’s jump into the details of this mouthwatering cheeseburger casserole recipe and show you why it deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.

What Makes Cheeseburger Casserole So Special?

There’s a reason why this dish is a classic in so many households. A great cheeseburger casserole recipe hits all the right notes: savory, cheesy, comforting, and easy to make. It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you want to stick to the basics or experiment with bold flavors, this dish adapts well to your preferences.

Here are just a few reasons why families love this recipe:

Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive, everyday ingredients
Quick to make: Ready in just about 30 minutes from start to finish
Customizable: Great base for additions like veggies, bacon, or different cheeses
Kid-approved: All the flavor of a cheeseburger in a fun, fork-friendly form
Reheats like a dream: Makes perfect leftovers for busy days

Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s take a closer look at what goes into this cheeseburger casserole recipe and why each item plays a crucial role.

Ground Beef – 1 lb

This is the main protein and the foundation of that classic cheeseburger flavor. You can go with 80/20 ground chuck for a balance of flavor and fat, or use leaner beef if you prefer a lighter dish.

Elbow Macaroni – 8 oz (about 2 cups dry)

Macaroni noodles are a staple in casserole cooking because they hold sauce well and don’t fall apart easily. You can substitute with shells or rotini if that’s what you have on hand.

Tomato Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)

Instead of making a complex sauce from scratch, this shortcut ingredient brings a smooth, tomato-rich base to the dish. It also lends a little sweetness and tanginess reminiscent of ketchup on a burger.

Milk – 1/2 cup

A splash of milk stretches the tomato soup into a creamy, luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its meltiness and bold flavor. It gives this casserole its cheesy signature and gooey texture.

Salt & Pepper to Taste

These basics are essential for seasoning the beef and balancing out the sauce. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.

How to Make Cheeseburger Casserole Step by Step

This cheeseburger casserole recipe is simple enough to make on a weeknight but tasty enough to serve at a gathering. Here’s how to make it from scratch:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Turn your oven on to 375°F (190°C) so it’s fully heated by the time your casserole is ready to bake.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Boil water in a large pot, salt it generously, and cook the macaroni until just al dente (around 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season it with salt and pepper as it browns. Cook until no pink remains, then drain excess fat.

Step 4: Add Tomato Soup and Milk

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato soup and milk. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors come together and form a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Mix in the Pasta

Fold the cooked macaroni into the skillet with the beef and sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and evenly combined.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Mix in one cup of shredded cheddar until melted and creamy. Then transfer the whole mixture into a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This layer will form a gooey, golden crust as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before digging in. This rest time helps everything set and makes serving easier.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole

Want to take your cheeseburger casserole recipe from good to absolutely unforgettable? Try these tips:

Use fresh cheese: It melts better than bagged, pre-shredded varieties
Undercook pasta slightly: It will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy
Add a crispy topping: Mix breadcrumbs with a bit of butter and sprinkle on top for extra crunch
Include diced onions: Sautéed onions cooked with the beef bring that grilled burger taste
Let it rest: Always give your casserole a few minutes to cool before cutting — the cheese will set and the sauce won’t run

Variations and Add-Ons

A classic cheeseburger casserole recipe is fantastic on its own, but you can easily switch it up to fit your taste or use what you have on hand.

Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Add cooked bacon pieces either in the filling or on top. It’s hard to go wrong with more bacon.

Loaded Cheeseburger Bake

Toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even jalapeños for a deluxe version.

Pickle Lover’s Twist

Garnish with chopped dill pickles after baking. The sharp tanginess contrasts beautifully with the cheesy meat.

Tex-Mex Style

Add taco seasoning to the beef, swap cheddar for pepper jack, and top with crushed tortilla chips for a Mexican-inspired spin.

Low-Carb Option

Replace macaroni with steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles for a lighter version that still tastes indulgent.

Perfect Side Dishes for Cheeseburger Casserole

Wondering what to serve with your casserole? Here are a few great pairings that complement the hearty nature of the dish:

Simple green salad: Use vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Garlic bread or toast: Great for scooping up cheesy bites
Steamed or roasted veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add balance
Sweet potato fries: Play into the burger theme with a twist

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage Advice

This cheeseburger casserole recipe is a dream for meal preppers and busy families. Here’s how to store and reheat it the right way:

To make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Keep covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.
To freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 420
Protein: 22g
Fat: 24g
Carbs: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg

For a healthier twist, use lean beef, whole grain pasta, and reduced-fat cheese. You’ll still get all the flavor with less fat and calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole without tomato soup?

Yes! Substitute with marinara or tomato sauce mixed with a tablespoon of ketchup or mustard for that “burger” flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely. Penne, rotini, or even bowtie pasta all work well in this recipe.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes. You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well and label it with the date.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can. Replace ground beef with plant-based ground or cooked lentils and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure your pasta isn’t overcooked and that there’s enough sauce. Cover with foil while baking if it seems to be drying out.

Conclusion: A Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe Worth Repeating

There’s a reason this cheeseburger casserole recipe is a fan favorite. It’s rich, cheesy, comforting, and easy to whip up with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this dish checks all the boxes.

And the best part? It’s incredibly flexible. You can dress it up, keep it classic, or tweak it to fit your dietary needs. So the next time you’re in the mood for comfort food that feels like a hug in a dish, go with this cheeseburger casserole recipe. You won’t regret it.