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Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole is the kind of hearty comfort food that turns a busy weeknight into a cozy family moment. With the meaty satisfaction of a cheeseburger and the creaminess of a cheesy pasta, this dish combines two favorites into one baked, bubbly casserole. Each bite brings a rich blend of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a hint of tangy ketchup and mustard that tastes just like a juicy cheeseburger in casserole form.

It’s one of those meals that pleases everyone around the table and leaves no leftovers in sight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a meal that reheats well for lunch the next day, this casserole covers it all. It’s unfussy, made with pantry staples, and endlessly customizable to suit your family’s preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

This recipe is more than just a baked pasta dish. It offers the nostalgic flavors of a backyard burger night in a dish you can make ahead and toss in the oven. The combination of cheesy goodness and familiar burger flavor hits that sweet spot between indulgence and ease.

It comes together quickly, doesn’t require fancy ingredients, and will remind you of diner-style cheeseburgers with every forkful. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making dinner battles a thing of the past.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta works best in this recipe, allowing all the creamy beef and cheese sauce to cling to every bite. Elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, but rotini or shells are also perfect for soaking up all that rich flavor. Avoid long noodles, as they don’t blend as well into the casserole.

Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

When making this casserole, the magic comes from familiar, humble ingredients that create bold flavor when combined. Here are the key players:

Elbow macaroni brings the perfect bite and holds up to baking without going mushy.

Ground beef gives the dish its classic burger flavor and hearty texture.

Yellow onion sautéed into the beef base adds sweetness and depth.

Garlic provides savory warmth that rounds out the meaty base.

Ketchup and yellow mustard are essential for capturing that true cheeseburger taste.

Cheddar cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce and adds tangy bite.

Cream cheese helps bind everything together and makes the sauce extra luscious.

Beef broth deepens the flavor and gives the casserole a juicy base.

Worcestershire sauce adds a hint of umami and boosts the meaty richness.

Salt and pepper are the simplest ingredients but essential to balance the flavor.

How To Make the Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook your elbow macaroni in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside while you work on the sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes to develop flavor. Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and half the cheddar cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Fold the cooked pasta into the sauce and mix until every piece is coated. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but pairs beautifully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables. It serves about 6 people generously, making it a great pick for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze it before baking—just thaw overnight and bake as usual when ready.

What to Serve With Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole?

Crisp Side Salad

A fresh salad with romaine, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to balance the rich pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and garlic, broccoli complements the savory beef and cheese combo.

Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any cheesy sauce left on the plate.

Pickle Spears

Just like a burger plate, tangy pickles bring acidity and crunch.

Corn on the Cob

Grilled or boiled, corn adds a touch of sweetness and color to your plate.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy sweet potato fries make a fun and flavorful side for kids and adults alike.

Baked Beans

The smoky sweetness of baked beans is a nostalgic pairing with cheeseburger flavors.

Coleslaw

Creamy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch and contrast to the warm casserole.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this cozy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole, check out these other crowd-pleasers:

• Low Carb Chicken Casserole if you’re craving something hearty without the carbs.
• Amish Sunday Savior Casserole for rustic flavor and ultimate comfort.
• Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole when you want to sweeten your brunch table.
• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake for an effortless meaty dinner.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for another twist on cheesy burger flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with jalapeños? Maybe add bacon bits on top? I’d love to hear your delicious twists.

Explore beautifully curated hearty meals and clever kitchen shortcuts on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next dinner win!

Conclusion

This Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole is all about satisfying flavor without the stress. It’s the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed, bringing joy and full bellies in every cheesy, beefy bite. Simple, familiar, and deliciously nostalgic—make this your next comfort classic.

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