Pin This A comforting, budget-friendly casserole that combines all the classic cheeseburger flavors in one dish perfect for a hearty family meal under $15.
I first served this casserole to my family on a chilly evening and it was an instant hit the rich flavors and cheesy texture made everyone ask for seconds
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Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) (80/20 preferred)
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14 oz 400 g) can, drained
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup
- Yellow mustard: 1 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Elbow macaroni: 8 oz (225 g), uncooked
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups (200 g), divided
- Milk: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp (optional)
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, about 5 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 4:
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 2 3 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat. Stir in the cooked macaroni, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Step 7:
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Step 8:
- Bake, uncovered, for 15 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 9:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin This This dish has become a staple in our family dinners bringing everyone together around the table for a delicious and satisfying meal
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Notes
For extra flavor, top with sliced pickles or chopped fresh tomatoes before serving. Swap ground turkey for beef for a lighter version. Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies. Serve with a crisp green salad.
Required Tools
Large skillet, Large pot, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Mixing spoon, Colander
Nutritional Information
Calories 480 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 36 g Protein 28 g per serving
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This easy casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners and leftovers reheat wonderfully for next day meals
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version, maintaining the dish's flavor and texture.
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is preferred for its size and shape, which holds the sauce well, but small pasta shapes like shells or penne can work too.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake just before serving to keep flavors fresh.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with this casserole?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables complement the rich and cheesy casserole nicely, balancing the meal.
