It is 6pm. You are tired. Dinner needs to happen fast.
This One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is your new secret weapon. It is warm, cheesy, and ready in thirty minutes. You will love how it brings the family together.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short. It delivers all the flavors of a juicy burger in one bowl. You only have one pan to wash tonight. That means more time for you to relax after dinner. Your kids will actually ask for seconds of this meal.
It uses simple ingredients you likely already have. The combination of beef and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. It is a budget-friendly way to feed a hungry group. You can rely on this recipe during any busy season.
Simple Method
You just brown the meat and simmer everything together. The pasta cooks right in the savory broth and milk. This creates a natural creamy sauce that is so satisfying. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this. It is a foolproof dinner for any home cook.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are mostly pantry staples that create a rich and savory flavor profile.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz elbow macaroni, dry
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, diced (optional garnish)
Step-by-Step
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until the meat is fully cooked and onions are translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, ketchup, and mustard; stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in the beef broth, milk, and dry macaroni. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is submerged.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Top with the remaining 0.5 cups of cheese, cover for 2 minutes to allow it to melt, and garnish with pickles if desired before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this warm in deep, cozy bowls for the best experience. Top it with extra pickles or even some fresh diced tomatoes. It pairs perfectly with a simple side of steamed broccoli. You can also serve it with a crisp green salad. This meal feels like a treat without the drive-thru.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and delicious for up to three days. This makes it a great meal prep option for lunches. Reheat it on the stove with a splash of milk. The milk helps the cheese sauce stay creamy and smooth. You can also use the microwave for a quick bite.
Tips for Best Results
- Drain the grease well for a much cleaner flavor.
- Use a heavy skillet to ensure the heat stays even.
- Sharp cheddar cheese provides the most bold cheese flavor.
- Keep the lid on tight to steam the pasta perfectly.
- Dice your onions small so they blend right in.
- Stir occasionally so the pasta does not stick.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach for a hidden veggie.
- Double the batch if you are feeding a larger crowd.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner meal.
- Use gluten-free macaroni to keep it allergy-friendly.
- Stir in cooked bacon bits for a bacon cheeseburger twist.
- Swap yellow mustard for Dijon for a more sophisticated taste.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can brown the beef and onions earlier. Just finish the pasta steps right before you serve. This keeps the macaroni perfectly tender and fresh.
What if the sauce is too thin?
If it looks thin, simmer it uncovered for two minutes. The cheese will also help thicken the sauce significantly. Let it sit for a moment before serving.
Will my kids actually eat this?
Absolutely! It tastes exactly like a classic cheeseburger in pasta form. It is a guaranteed win for picky eaters.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your busy weeknights. It is a joy to see families enjoy a simple meal together. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy bite!
— Lidia
One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tsp sal t
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp ketchu p
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 oz elbow macaroni, dry
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, diced (optional garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion until the meat is fully cooked and onions are translucent.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, ketchup, and mustard; stir for 1 minute.
- Pour in the beef broth, milk, and dry macaroni. Stir to combine and ensure pasta is submerged.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid.
- Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Top with the remaining 0.5 cups of cheese, cover for 2 minutes to allow it to melt, and garnish with pickles if desired before serving.
