May be an image of shepherd's pie

Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a warm, cheesy baked pasta dish. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato-based sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Every bite is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or small pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups beef broth
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Optional Toppings

Dill pickle slices
Crumbled cooked bacon
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds for garnish

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Gather and measure all the ingredients before you begin. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, shred the cheese if using blocks, and cook the pasta until just al dente according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Slightly undercooking the pasta helps prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. If your beef is lean, add a tablespoon of olive oil first.

Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains.

Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming oily.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the cooked beef and cook for about 4 minutes until softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Mix in:

Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning

Stir well so the seasonings evenly coat the beef mixture.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Add the tomato paste and cook for one minute to deepen its flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring until everything is well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk and flour until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the skillet. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.