Name: Cheddar Hamburger Casserole: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Kosher salt, to taste; 8 oz. elbow macaroni; 1 lb. ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce; 2 Tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard; 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper; 6 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups), divided; 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional); 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

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Cheddar Hamburger Casserole is a comforting dish that merges the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the heartiness of a casserole. This delightful recipe features tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a medley of ingredients, topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. The addition of fresh romaine lettuce adds a refreshing crunch, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies the whole family. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

There are countless reasons to adore this Cheddar Hamburger Casserole. Here are just a few:

It’s a comforting dish that evokes nostalgia, combining familiar flavors into one easy meal.
This cheesy hamburger bake is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish.
It’s customizable; add your favorite vegetables for a nutritious twist with a cheddar hamburger casserole with vegetables.

The leftovers are just as delicious, making it ideal for meal prep.
This casserole is a ground beef cheddar dish that kids absolutely love!
It’s a one-pot wonder, reducing cleanup time significantly.
With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this dish in no time.

Ingredients for Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

Gather these items:

Kosher salt, to taste

8 oz. elbow macaroni
1 lb. ground beef
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
1/4 cup ketchup
2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

6 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups), divided
2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional)
1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

How to Make Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni, stirring occasionally, until it is very al dente, about 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a 13″ x 9″ baking dish.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef in large chunks without stirring, allowing it to brown on the bottom for about 4 minutes. Then break up the meat with a spatula and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains—about 4 minutes more. Transfer the cooked beef to the baking dish with the pasta.

Step 3: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, 1 cup water, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt. Let the mixture combine and heat through briefly, then transfer it into the baking dish with the beef and pasta.
Step 4: Add 3 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole and stir until evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining 3 ounces of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If using, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

Step 5: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately top the casserole with the chopped romaine lettuce for a fresh crunch.
Step 6: You can assemble the casserole without baking it up to 1 day in advance. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

Cheddar Hamburger Casserole: 5 Reasons to Love This Dish - Cheddar Hamburger Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

Keep these in mind:

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños.
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a creamier texture, increase the amount of mayonnaise.

Best Ways to Serve Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

This creamy hamburger cheddar recipe can be served with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the dish. You can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for an added flavor punch. For those looking to elevate the meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, enhancing both nutrition and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

To store your Cheddar Hamburger Casserole, simply cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This makes it an ideal meal prep option for busy days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheddar Hamburger Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Cheddar Hamburger Casserole?

The secret to a perfect Cheddar Hamburger Casserole lies in not overcooking the pasta and ensuring all ingredients are well combined before baking. This prevents the dish from becoming dry and ensures a creamy texture throughout.

Can I make Cheddar Hamburger Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this easy cheddar hamburger casserole in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop it in the oven.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheddar Hamburger Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately and follow the cooking times closely. Overbaking can cause the casserole to dry out, while undercooking can leave the flavors unbalanced.

Variations of Cheddar Hamburger Casserole You Can Try

There are plenty of ways to customize your Cheddar Hamburger Casserole. For a healthier take, try using ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Additionally, try using different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile!

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