One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole

This One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and creamy, melted cheddar cheese, it’s a hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients like beef broth, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce, this dish delivers all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a quick and easy casserole. Minimal cleanup, ready in under 30 minutes, and loved by the whole family—this recipe is a must-try for any home cook looking for a satisfying dinner idea!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, at room temperature (divided)
• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (16 oz.) box elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Creamy Additions

• ¾ cup sour cream, at room temperature
• ½ cup whole milk, at room temperature

Garnish

• Chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese:
   Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside at room temperature. This ensures it melts smoothly when added later.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef with the diced onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add Garlic and Flavorings:
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   Pour in the beef broth and stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium or medium-low heat. Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, stir briefly, then re-cover and cook for another 5 minutes or until the pasta is just al dente.
5. Incorporate the Creamy Ingredients:
   Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream and half of the milk. Add the remaining milk only if you want a creamier consistency.
6. Add the Cheese:
   Gradually sprinkle in 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
7. Finish and Serve:
   Top the casserole with the remaining cheese. Cover the pot again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor!
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Comfort Food Favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty—a family classic.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cheese, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Cook just until al dente as it will continue to soften slightly after mixing with the sauce.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
• Add Veggies: Stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Cheese Variety: Mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole as directed but stop before adding the final layer of cheese. Reheat on the stove or in the oven, then top with cheese and let it melt before serving.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.

What can I use instead of elbow macaroni?
Any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells will work well in this recipe.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pair With: A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• For Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
• Make it a Meal: Add a side of pickles for a cheeseburger-inspired twist!

Enjoy this One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole for a quick, satisfying, and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family!