Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
- Tomato Sauce: 2 standard cans (14-16 oz each) or 1 large can (28 oz)
- Pasta Noodles: 2 boxes (each box typically 12-16 oz)
- Heavy Cream: 1 1/2 cups
- Ground Beef: 1/2 pound
- Sausage: 1/2 pound (use your preferred type, such as Italian or breakfast sausage)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
- Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded
- Olive Oil: For cooking the pasta
- Butter: For coating the cooked pasta
- Cornstarch: Optional, for thickening the sauce
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other seasonings you prefer
Instructions
1. Cook the Meats
- Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks.
- Once fully cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside in a bowl.
- Sausage:
- Using the same skillet, cook the sausage until it is browned and fully cooked.
- Break it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks.
- Once cooked, drain any excess fat and combine with the ground beef. Set the meat mixture aside.
2. Prepare the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add a splash of olive oil to the boiling water to help prevent the pasta from sticking.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.
- Add a small amount of butter to the pasta and stir to coat. This will prevent the pasta from sticking together. Set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
- Tomato Sauce Base:
- In a medium saucepan, pour in the tomato sauce.
- Heat the sauce over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other seasonings you like.
- Cream and Cheese:
- Once the tomato sauce is warmed through and seasoned, add the heavy cream.
- Stir to combine and continue heating until the sauce is smooth.
- Gradually add the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. Combine the Ingredients
- Mix the cooked ground beef and sausage into the tomato cream sauce.
- If the sauce is too thin, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Gradually stir the slurry into the sauce until it reaches your desired thickness.
- Add the meat and sauce mixture to the cooked pasta and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to broil or 400°F (200°C) if you prefer to bake.
- Transfer the pasta and meat mixture into a deep baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top.
- Broiling: Place under the broiler for about 3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Baking: Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted.
6. Serve
- Serve the cheeseburger casserole hot.
- Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Benefits of Cheeseburger Casserole
- Hearty and Satisfying:
- This casserole combines the savory, rich flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting texture of pasta. The blend of ground beef, sausage, and melted cheeses creates a dish that is both filling and deeply satisfying, making it an ideal meal for anyone looking for a hearty dinner.
- Family-Friendly:
- Kids and adults alike will love this dish. The familiar taste of cheeseburgers paired with pasta is a winning combination for even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great way to bring the family together around the dinner table, and it’s likely to become a favorite in your household.
- Versatile:
- This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily swap out the types of meats and cheeses to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a new flavor twist. You can also incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add more variety.
- Convenient:
- Cheeseburger casserole can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake, saving time and reducing stress. This makes it perfect for meal planning and ensuring you have a homemade meal ready to go.
- Balanced Nutrition:
- This dish provides a well-rounded meal with protein from the ground beef and sausage, dairy from the cheese and cream, and carbohydrates from the pasta. Adding vegetables can enhance the nutritional profile, offering fiber and essential vitamins. It’s a complete meal in one dish, providing the energy and nutrients needed for a balanced diet.
- Crowd-Pleaser:
- Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or a casual dinner party, cheeseburger casserole is sure to be a hit. Its universally appealing flavors make it a great choice for feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s easy to scale up the recipe to accommodate more guests.
- Budget-Friendly:
- This recipe uses common, affordable ingredients, making it a cost-effective option for feeding a family. You can buy ingredients in bulk and save even more, making it an economical choice without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
- Comfort Food:
- The warm, creamy sauce and gooey melted cheese make this casserole the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for cold nights, providing a sense of warmth and coziness. The nostalgic flavors of cheeseburgers bring a sense of familiarity and comfort, making it a go-to recipe for those seeking a comforting meal.
Q&A
Q: Can I use different types of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef and sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer.
Q: What type of pasta works best for this recipe? A: Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or macaroni work well. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before the final baking step. When ready to serve, simply bake until it’s heated through.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny? A: Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) to thicken the sauce. Add it gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole? A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the meat mixture can enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.