Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole - A One-Dish Family Favorite

If you only have 30 minutes to make dinner, this Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole is what you’re looking for!

5 from 5 votes

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 30

Servings: SERVINGS

Calories: 616kcal

Author: Katherine - Yummfully

Equipment

Knife and cutting board
Large Dutch oven or heavy bottomed saucepan
Stove

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
½ cup yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dry parsley
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes
½ tsp salt
Ground pepper to taste
2 ½ tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
16 oz elbow macaroni
¾ cup milk at room temperature
½ cup sour cream at room temperature
2 cups cheddar cheese freshly shredded, at room temperature (divided: 1 cup stirred in, 1 cup for topping)

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef with the onion, garlic, and seasonings until fully browned. Drain excess grease, if needed, before continuing.
Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce and stir until fully combined.
Pour in the beef broth, add the elbow macaroni, stir, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes, stirring every 2–3 minutes to prevent the pasta from sticking or clumping.
Uncover and stir in the milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese (keep the rest for topping). Use room-temperature dairy for smooth blending. The casserole should be thick and creamy. If it looks too watery, continue to simmer uncovered for 1–2 more minutes.
Top with the remaining cheese, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Scoop into bowls and serve warm — it’s pure comfort in one pan.
Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onion for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Notes:

You can use any short pasta like penne, shells, or rotini instead of elbow macaroni.
For a richer flavor, use whole milk.
Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
Add a teaspoon of ketchup or mustard while simmering for a stronger “cheeseburger” flavor.
Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes.
To enhance the classic cheeseburger flavor, stir in a teaspoon of ketchup, yellow mustard, or a spoonful of pickle relish while the pasta cooks

Make-Ahead Tip:
Assemble the casserole as written but undercook the pasta by 1–2 minutes. Let cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or bake at 350°F until heated through and bubbly.

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