Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot: Quick & Tasty

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Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot has been my go-to for those nights when only pure comfort food will do. I remember my mom making a version of this when I was a kid, and the smell of browning beef and simmering tomato sauce always meant a cozy evening. This recipe takes all those nostalgic flavors and transforms them into an incredibly easy, all-in-one dish. Forget the multiple pans; everything comes together right here in one pot! It’s truly one of the best ways to whip up a satisfying meal, even when you’re short on time. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

This recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons. It delivers all the craveable flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Unbeatable Flavor: Get ready for that classic cheeseburger taste with juicy beef, melty cheddar, and a rich tomato sauce.
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have dinner on the table fast.
Family-Friendly Appeal: This dish is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Budget-Conscious: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Minimal Cleanup: Since it’s a one-pot wonder, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe using ingredients you already have on hand.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

Gathering these essential ingredients is the first step to making this delicious, one-pot meal. You’ll find that many of these are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever a craving strikes. We’ll be using simple components that create that authentic cheeseburger flavor in a comforting casserole format.

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 pound lean ground beef – the hearty base of our casserole
1 medium yellow onion, diced (about ¾ to 1 cup) – adds a sweet, savory depth
1½ teaspoons granulated garlic – for that classic garlic punch
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided – essential for flavor enhancement
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided – to add a hint of spice
2 tablespoons tomato paste (double concentrated, if possible) – provides a rich, concentrated tomato flavor
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a tangy, umami boost
3 cups low-sodium beef broth – forms the base of our sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (regular or petite, with juices) – for bursts of tomato goodness
12 ounces dried elbow macaroni (2½ to 3 cups) – the pasta that soaks up all the delicious sauce
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups) – for that irresistible cheesy goodness
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or sliced scallion (optional, for garnish) – adds a fresh finish

How to Make Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

Get ready for the easiest, most satisfying cheeseburger experience you’ve ever had, all cooked in a single pot! This recipe walks you through creating a hearty, flavorful meal without the fuss. Following these steps ensures you get that perfect blend of savory beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese every time.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound lean ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Carefully drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Toss the 1 medium yellow onion, diced into the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent, usually about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the 1½ teaspoons granulated garlic, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon of the black pepper. Cook for another minute until you can smell that wonderful garlicky aroma.
Step 3: Add the 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Stir them into the beef and onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps deepen the flavor of the tomato paste.
Step 4: Pour in 3 cups of the beef broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring this mixture to a simmer, using your spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Now it’s time for the pasta! Stir in the 12 ounces dried elbow macaroni, the remaining 1 cup of beef broth, the other 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Give everything a good stir to make sure the macaroni is submerged.
Step 6: Bring the entire mixture back to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for the macaroni to be tender and most of the liquid to be absorbed. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Step 7: Take the pot off the heat. Stir in 6 ounces of the sharp cheddar cheese, shredded until it’s completely melted and creates a creamy, delicious sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the pot again for a few minutes to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.
Step 9: Garnish with the chopped parsley or sliced scallion, if you’re using them, for a burst of freshness. Serve your amazing one-pot cheeseburger casserole hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

Want to elevate your one-pot cheeseburger casserole game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips will help ensure your casserole is a showstopper every single time.

Don’t skimp on browning the beef. Those browned bits are packed with flavor!
Use good quality sharp cheddar cheese; it melts better and tastes richer.
Stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent the macaroni from sticking.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after adding the cheese before serving; it helps everything meld together.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheeseburger Casserole?

The key is building layers of flavor right from the start. Properly browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic creates a savory base. Using double concentrated tomato paste also amps up the richness significantly. For more on building flavor in cooking, check out this guide on how to build flavor in cooking.

Can I make Cheeseburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the final cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheeseburger Casserole?

A common pitfall is undercooking the pasta; stir occasionally and ensure it’s tender before removing from heat. Also, avoid over-salting early on, as the cheese and beef broth add saltiness. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. For more tips on avoiding cooking mistakes, you might find common cooking mistakes and how to fix them helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

This hearty one-pot cheeseburger casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your dinner. It’s so comforting and satisfying, you might not need much else!

For a classic American diner feel, serve this casserole alongside a crisp, fresh garden salad. A simple vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness of the cheesy beef perfectly. You could also offer some crunchy dill pickle spears on the side – they add a fantastic tangy bite that complements the savory flavors. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, a side of homemade coleslaw offers a creamy, cool contrast. These simple additions make this already delicious dish even more complete and satisfying, bringing together all the essential components for a perfect meal. For more ideas on classic side dishes, explore these southern baked macaroni and cheese recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious one-pot meal. This casserole is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients, making it a hearty choice for dinner.

Calories: 550
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 900mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

This delicious cheeseburger casserole is perfect for leftovers, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Once it’s cooled down a bit, you can easily store it to enjoy later. I usually make sure to let it sit for about 20-30 minutes after cooking before I pack it away.

For refrigeration, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freezing is a great option. Let the casserole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap it tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat your stored cheeseburger casserole, you have a couple of easy reheating methods. For refrigerated portions, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual servings until heated through. Frozen portions can be thawed overnight in the refrigerator and then reheated as you would the refrigerated leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot

Can I use different types of pasta for this cheeseburger casserole?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can easily swap it out. Rotini, penne, or even shells work wonderfully. Just ensure the pasta is cooked through in the sauce according to package directions, adjusting liquid if needed. Using ingredients like these is key for a successful homemade version. For other pasta ideas, check out this tasty beef and olive pasta recipe.

What’s the best way to make this casserole healthier?

To lighten it up, try using leaner ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also boost the vegetable content by adding finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini along with the onions. Using whole wheat pasta and a reduced-sodium broth are other great ways to make it a healthier comfort food.

Can I add other toppings to my cheeseburger casserole?

Definitely! Get creative with your toppings. Some popular additions include crispy fried onions, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped fresh tomatoes, or even a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. These can add extra texture and flavor dimensions.

How do I make sure the cheese is perfectly melted?

The best way is to remove the pot from the heat before stirring in the final cheese. Stir gently until it’s smooth and creamy. For the topping, covering the pot for just a few minutes creates enough steam to melt the cheese beautifully without overcooking the rest of the casserole.

Variations of Cheeseburger Casserole the One Pot You Can Try

While this original one-pot cheeseburger casserole is fantastic, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many ways to switch up the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Exploring these variations can bring a whole new life to this comforting dish, using simple swaps for exciting results.

Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onion. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños with the onions or top the finished casserole with a drizzle of sriracha.
Turkey or Chicken Version: Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The cooking process remains the same, offering a similar comfort food experience with a different protein base.
Veggie-Loaded: Boost the vegetable content by adding finely diced bell peppers (any color works!), shredded carrots, or even some frozen peas and corn during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This adds extra nutrients and flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the macaroni and use cauliflower rice instead! Stir it in during the last 5-7 minutes of simmering, just until tender. This creates a delicious, carb-conscious version of the classic flavors.