If you’re craving a dish that brings together the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the hearty satisfaction of pasta, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe. It’s a cozy, one-dish wonder that transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal bursting with cheesy, savory goodness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, this casserole has that perfect balance of rich meatiness, creamy pasta, and melted cheese that just hits the spot every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to whip up this delightful casserole. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors, creating textures, and building the colorful appeal that makes this dish as inviting as it is delicious.
- 1 pound ground beef: The savory foundation that delivers robust flavor and satisfying protein.
- 12 ounces cavatappi pasta: Its spiral shape traps sauce beautifully for every bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and rich cheesiness that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy goodness for that ultimate comfort factor.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes: Provides acidity and depth, balancing the richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Infuses sweetness and savory undertones when cooked with the beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the onion flavor without extra chopping.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and subtle color.
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk: Creams up the sauce and mellows out the tomato’s tang.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy, umami kick that deepens the savory profile.
- Salt, to taste: Heightens all the wonderful flavors.
- Pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, green touch to brighten the finished plate.
How to Make Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding the diced onion as it sizzles. This combo cooks down into a flavorful base as the beef browns and the onions soften, building that classic cheeseburger taste. Be sure to drain any excess grease once it’s fully cooked to keep the casserole from getting too oily.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about five minutes so the spices fully bloom and marry together, turning into a rich, savory sauce that’s the heart of the casserole.
Step 3: Add Creaminess
To achieve that luscious, creamy texture that separates this casserole from ordinary pasta dishes, stir in your choice of heavy cream or milk. This step balances out the acidity of the tomato sauce and melts everything into a smooth, velvety finish. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce thickens, cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and has a satisfying bite under the richness of the casserole. Drain and toss the pasta back into the pot to keep it warm.
Step 5: Combine and Add Cheese
Mix the seasoned ground beef and sauce mixture with the cooked pasta, then stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. This step helps the cheese melt evenly throughout, giving you gooey bites every time you dig in.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your cheeseburger pasta mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, creating a cheesy crown that will brown delightfully in the oven.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling
Bake the casserole uncovered in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling edges and a golden cheese top—that’s when you know it’s ready. Baking helps meld the flavors together and creates that irresistible crust of melted cheese on top.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. This little touch lifts the dish visually and adds a mild herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
How to Serve Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped parsley or scallions on top to add a vibrant color and fresh bite that cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. For an extra layer, a handful of crunchy pickles served on the side works wonders, echoing that classic cheeseburger flair.
Side Dishes
Keep things simple with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the hearty casserole. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make great companions, bringing freshness and texture contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for portion control and an elegant presentation. You can also top with a fried or poached egg for a brunch option that’s a delicious game changer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve enjoyed your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option during a busy week.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then transfer portions or the whole dish into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to three months – perfect for a quick meal rescue!
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. For faster reheating, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through for even heat distribution.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi is ideal for trapping the sauce, feel free to use elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it to al dente for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers to keep that hearty feel without the meat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
You sure can. Assemble the casserole up to Step 6, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What cheese cheeses work best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella create the perfect blend of sharpness and meltiness. However, you can mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a slightly different flavor profile while keeping the creamy texture intact.
How spicy is the dish?
This recipe has a mild warmth thanks to the paprika, but if you like more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or toss in some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe truly checks all the boxes for a satisfying, cheesy, and comforting meal that anyone will adore. It’s quick enough for busy nights yet impressive enough to serve guests, so don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy the delicious vibes it brings to your dinner table.
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Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole combines all the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger with tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy bake. Ground beef is cooked with onions and spices, simmered in a tomato-based sauce, mixed with creamy milk and pasta, and then baked with layers of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
Pasta
- 12 ounces cavatappi pasta
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Additional
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions until the beef is no longer pink and fully cooked. Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Simmer with tomato sauce and spices: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Add cream and season: Stir in the heavy cream or milk until fully combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed.
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot.
- Combine beef mixture and pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the beef and sauce mixture with the cooked pasta. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed.
- Prepare casserole dish: Grease a casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce for a chunkier texture.
- To add extra veggies, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or mushrooms when cooking the ground beef.
- Leftover casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
- For a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef and reduced-fat cheeses.
