The Best Beef & Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish, this Beef & Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is the answer. Packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this dish combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of a baked pasta casserole.

It’s easy to prepare, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Ingredients Overview

• Ground Beef: The base of the casserole, providing hearty flavor. Choose lean beef to minimize grease.
• Pasta: Short pasta like penne or elbow macaroni works best to hold the sauce and cheese.
• Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but you can mix it with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
• Tomato Sauce: Gives the dish its tangy and slightly sweet base.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika bring out the “cheeseburger” flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   Reduce the heat to low and add the tomato sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the skillet, if large enough), mix the cooked pasta, beef sauce mixture, and sour cream. Stir until the pasta is fully coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• Pasta Alternatives: Swap elbow macaroni for shells or rotini for a fun twist.
• Cheese Lovers: Add an extra layer of cheese in the middle for a gooey surprise.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef for added nutrition.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A crisp garden salad with ranch or vinaigrette dressing complements the rich flavors.
• Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.
• A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a touch of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use other proteins?
Certainly! Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even crumbled plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

This Beef & Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is a meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad and crusty bread. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a comforting classic that everyone will love!

Beef & Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole

If you're craving a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish, this Beef & Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is the answer. Packed with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this dish combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of a baked pasta casserole.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 1 small onion diced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Brown the Beef:
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
• Prepare the Sauce:
• Reduce the heat to low and add the tomato sauce, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
• Combine Ingredients:
• In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the skillet, if large enough), mix the cooked pasta, beef sauce mixture, and sour cream. Stir until the pasta is fully coated.
• Assemble the Casserole:
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Bake:
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.