Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is a dish that fills the air with savory scents, blending cheesy goodness with the comforting embrace of pasta. Imagine digging into a warm, bubbling casserole, where each forkful bursts with flavors reminiscent of a backyard barbecue.
This recipe holds fond memories for me, often making an appearance at family gatherings where laughter and stories blend as seamlessly as the ingredients in this delightful dish. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck hit, this Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole never fails to impress and satisfy. For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its rich, cheesy flavor will keep everyone coming back for seconds
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs
Sharing this dish at our last family reunion sparked joy when my cousin exclaimed it was “the ultimate comfort food.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for a healthier option while still providing that classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Pasta: Use elbow macaroni or shells for easy eating; they hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a rich creaminess and enhances that cheeseburger experience.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion delivers a sweet undertone; sautéing it brings out its natural sugars.
- Ketchup: This tangy staple brings sweetness and depth; opt for organic if you can find it!
- Mustard: Yellow mustard adds that quintessential burger zing; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Pickles: Chopped pickles add crunch and acidity; they bring that classic burger flavor to life.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds warmth and complexity; consider using fresh herbs if available!
- Bread Crumbs: Topping with bread crumbs ensures a crunchy finish; mix with melted butter for extra flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt once it’s rolling, then toss in your pasta. Cook until al dente following package instructions—about 7-9 minutes should do.
Sauté the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Stir in chopped onions until they turn translucent and fragrant—this should take about 5 minutes.
Add Flavors and Sauces: Reduce heat to low and mix in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped pickles. Allow everything to simmer for about 3 minutes for flavors to meld beautifully.
Combine with Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta and add it directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Gently stir until all pasta is coated in that glorious sauce—this should smell heavenly!
Add Cheese & Transfer to Baking Dish : Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection. Pour everything into a greased baking dish evenly spread out—this creates those amazing layers everyone loves!
Topping Time!: Finally, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling them generously over the top of your casserole. It’ll bake into golden perfection while you wait!
Now that your Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is ready for action, pop it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Enjoy serving up heaping portions of this delightful casserole—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is a delightful twist on classic comfort food
- The rich, cheesy goodness combined with savory ground beef creates an irresistible meal that delights the whole family
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. While that sizzles, cook the pasta separately until al dente for optimal texture and flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers for added nutrition and color. A sprinkle of cheese on top never hurts either!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to revive creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor depth
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be slightly firm before baking
- Consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder for a flavorful kick
I still remember the first time I made this dish; my kids devoured it within minutes! Their laughter and happy chatter filled the kitchen, making my heart sing.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ground beef in Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole?
Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it ahead and store it in the fridge before baking for easy meal prep.
How do I know when my casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top.
Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole. Combining savory ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender pasta, this dish is a family favorite that evokes memories of backyard barbecues. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your preferences, it’s perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to potlucks. Your loved ones will enjoy every cheesy bite of this flavorful casserole!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil water in a large pot and cook elbow macaroni until al dente (7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Lower the heat and mix in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and pickles. Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture until well coated.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted, then transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg