One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole
If you’re craving the comforting taste of a cheeseburger but want something a little different, this One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is the perfect dish for you. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of a cheeseburger into a delicious, cheesy pasta dish that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s all made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, offering a satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy. The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less time spent cleaning up and more time to relax. Plus, it’s an ideal freezer meal, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it whenever you need a quick meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or skillet with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, at room temp, separated
- 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
- ¾ cup sour cream, at room temp
- ½ cup whole milk, at room temp
- Chopped parsley, to garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Shred the cheese and set it aside, ensuring it’s at room temperature before adding to the pasta.
- Season the ground beef with your desired amount of salt and pepper.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the onions. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, stirring until well combined.
- Add the beef broth and uncooked macaroni, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium or medium/low heat.
- Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes. Uncover, stir briefly, replace the cover, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the macaroni is just al dente.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Stir in the room temperature sour cream and half of the milk, adding more milk if desired.
- Gradually sprinkle in 2 ½ cups of shredded cheddar, stirring as you do so.
- Once the cheese is melted and the mixture has a uniform consistency, top with the remaining cheese.
- Replace the lid and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Top with parsley and serve, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cheese and sour cream are at room temperature to prevent them from clumping when added.
- Stir the casserole gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Include your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Swap out cheddar for a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories, protein, carbohydrates, fats, and other nutritional details will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this casserole? It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal for your family or a quick and easy dish to impress your guests, this One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you added. Enjoy!
