One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in an easy, satisfying meal. Prepared entirely in one pot, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (at room temperature, 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 temperature)
• ½ cup whole milk (at room temperature)
• Chopped parsley (to garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside at room temperature to prepare for later.
2. Step 2: Season the ground beef with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Step 3: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
4. Step 4: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste until well combined.
6. Step 6: Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir to combine everything evenly.
7. Step 7: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium or medium-low heat. Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes. Then uncover, stir briefly, replace the lid, and cook for another 5 minutes or until the pasta is just al dente.
8. Step 8: Reduce the heat to low.
9. Step 9: Stir in the room temperature sour cream and half of the milk. Add the remaining milk if you prefer a creamier texture.
10. Step 10: Gradually sprinkle in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
12. Step 12: Replace the lid and heat for an additional 2-3 minutes until the top cheese layer has melted.
13. Step 13: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this casserole.
• Try adding diced pickles or a splash of ketchup to the beef mixture for an even more authentic cheeseburger flavor.
• For extra richness, substitute some of the whole milk with heavy cream.
• Make sure the cheese and dairy ingredients are at room temperature to help them melt smoothly into the pasta.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

This casserole is best enjoyed freshly made, but you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to eat, combine with pasta and proceed with cooking.

One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 91 reviews

• Author: Noah
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

One Pot Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that combines seasoned ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich blend of cheddar cheese and creamy sour cream. Prepared entirely in one pot, this casserole offers a quick and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a hearty pasta form. Perfect for family dinners and busy weeknights, it’s a satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese

• 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (at room temperature, separated)

Meat & Vegetables

• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids & Dairy

• 4 cups beef broth
• ¾ cup sour cream (at room temperature)
• ½ cup whole milk (at room temperature)

Pantry Staples

• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (16 oz.) box elbow macaroni (uncooked)

Garnish

• Chopped parsley

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the cheese: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside at room temperature to help it melt smoothly into the dish later.
2. Season the ground beef: Sprinkle the ground beef with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
3. Cook beef and onions: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions, cooking and crumbling the beef as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the pot.
4. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma and flavor.
5. Incorporate Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste: Mix in the Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, stirring until they are fully combined with the beef mixture.
6. Add broth and pasta: Pour in the beef broth and add the uncooked elbow macaroni. Stir everything together to combine well.
7. Simmer pasta: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium or medium-low heat. Cover the pot and cook for 5 minutes, then uncover and stir. Replace the cover and cook for another 5 minutes until the pasta is just al dente.
8. Reduce heat: Lower the heat to low to prepare for adding dairy and cheese.
9. Mix in sour cream and milk: Stir in the sour cream and half of the milk. Add the remaining milk only if you desire a thinner consistency.
10. Add cheese gradually: Slowly sprinkle in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously to help it melt evenly into the sauce.
11. Top with remaining cheese: Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, spread the remaining shredded cheddar on top of the casserole.
12. Melt cheese topping: Cover the pot again and allow it to heat for another 2–3 minutes until the top layer of cheese melts.
13. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Ensure the cheese is at room temperature to help it melt smoothly without clumping.
• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and make the dish less oily.
• You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor and extra protein.
• Adjust the amount of milk to control the creaminess of the casserole.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce along with the garlic.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: One Pot, Cheeseburger Casserole, Ground Beef, Cheesy Pasta, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food