If you have a hankering for comfort food that hits all the right notes, the Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish brilliantly layers tender elbow macaroni, hearty seasoned ground beef, and a tangy, creamy sauce bursting with pickles and savory Worcestershire. Topped with melty cheddar and fresh romaine for crunch, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a make-ahead meal for friends, this casserole satisfies every craving with its rich flavors and perfect textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, well-balanced ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each component plays a special role, from the bright zing of mustard and pickles to the smooth creaminess of mayo, creating a symphony of taste that truly elevates this Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every layer of flavor.
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni: A classic pasta shape perfect for holding all the saucy goodness.
- 1 lb. ground beef: The hearty protein base that brings savory richness.
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Packs a flavorful punch with aromatic warmth.
- 1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and a hint of acidity to balance the dish.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides creamy texture and a slight tanginess.
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles: A surprising twist that introduces crunch and zest.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings sweetness and a tomato depth to the sauce.
- 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami richness that rounds out the flavors.
- 2 Tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tartness and complexity.
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice.
- 6 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups), divided: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional): Adds an unexpected nutty crunch on top.
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped: Provides a fresh, crisp topping that brightens every bite.
How to Make Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling salted water and cooking the elbow macaroni until very al dente, about two minutes less than package directions. This slight undercooking ensures the pasta retains a perfect bite even after baking. Drain it well and spread it evenly into a large 13-inch by 9-inch baking dish, as the pasta will be the sturdy base that holds everything together wonderfully.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef in large chunks, letting it brown undisturbed for about four minutes. This step helps develop a delicious crust and richer flavor. Then break up the meat and cook until it’s fully browned with no pink remaining, about four more minutes. Transfer the beef onto the macaroni in your baking dish, letting that hearty meaty layer build the casserole’s foundation.
Step 3: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Prepare the Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about five to seven minutes. Then add the canned diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, dill pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, a cup of water, black pepper, and a teaspoon of salt. Stir everything to combine and let the sauce heat briefly before pouring it over the pasta and beef. This flavorful sauce is what ties every ingredient together, enriching the casserole with tangy, savory notes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Mix
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese (about three ounces) into the baking dish and gently stir it through the mixture to achieve even cheesiness throughout. Then top the casserole with the remaining cheese. If you love a little extra texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top to add a subtle nutty crunch and eye-catching finish.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place your assembled dish into a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots. Once it comes out of the oven, immediately top with chopped romaine lettuce. This fresh green layer brings a crisp, refreshing contrast that elevates every forkful with brightness and crunch.
How to Serve Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped romaine lettuce on top offers a beautiful visual pop and adds crunch that perfectly balances the casserole’s creamy texture. For an extra touch, consider scattering a few more toasted sesame seeds or a light sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley to give a fresh aroma and color contrast that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a complete meal, but pairing it with simple side salads or roasted vegetables can round out your plate nicely. A crisp cucumber salad or steamed green beans dressed in lemon vinaigrette complement the rich, cheesy casserole by bringing in fresh, vibrant notes that refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized dining experience or spoon it into colorful bowls garnished with extra pickles or a sprinkling of paprika for warmth. If you’re hosting, consider layering with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to customize heat levels for guests, making this dish as fun as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the next-day serving just as satisfying as the first. Simply keep the fresh lettuce topping separate until ready to serve again.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble the dish completely, then cover tightly with foil and place it in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready for an easy dinner, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed until bubbly and golden again.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual servings or the whole casserole in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is re-melted. Avoid microwaving for best texture. Remember to add fresh chopped romaine or your preferred garnishes after reheating for that fresh finishing touch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and holds the sauce well, feel free to substitute with other short pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just be sure to slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when baked.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils. The cheese and flavorful sauce still create a comforting, satisfying dish without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole entirely in advance?
You can assemble the entire casserole a day before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it until bubbly and melty. Just add fresh ingredients like romaine lettuce at serving time to maintain texture.
What if I don’t like pickles? Can I omit them?
The chopped dill pickles add a nice tang and crunch, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or substitute with chopped green olives or capers for a different briny flavor.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking. You can also serve with sliced jalapeños or spicy mustard on the side for guests who like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe is one of those all-time favorites that brings people together around the table with its irresistible combination of flavors and comforting textures. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress company. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to casserole that everyone will rave about!
Print
Cheddar Hamburger Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Hamburger Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish combining tender elbow macaroni, savory browned ground beef, a flavorful tomato-mayo sauce with pickles and spices, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and a fresh crunch of chopped romaine lettuce. Perfect for a crowd or family dinner, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients and offers a nostalgic burger-inspired flavor in casserole form.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni
- 1 lb. ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 (14-oz.) can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
Sauces and Condiments
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tbsp. yellow or Dijon mustard
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. kosher salt (for sauce)
- 6 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups), divided
- 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until very al dente, about 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a 13” x 9” baking dish.
- Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef in large chunks, letting it brown without stirring for about 4 minutes to get a nice sear. Then break up the meat and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains, about 4 more minutes. Transfer the cooked beef to the baking dish with the pasta.
- Sauté Onions and Prepare Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, 1 cup water, black pepper, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Heat through briefly to meld the flavors, then pour the sauce mixture into the baking dish with the beef and pasta.
- Add Cheese and Mix: Add 3 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese to the casserole and stir gently to distribute it evenly throughout the mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 3 ounces of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If desired, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty crunch.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately top the casserole with the freshly chopped romaine lettuce to add a crisp, fresh texture contrast.
- Make Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance without baking. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Notes
- For best texture, cook macaroni just shy of al dente before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- To add extra flavor, brown the ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta.
- The chopped romaine lettuce topping adds fresh crunch—do not bake with the lettuce; add it just before serving.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 1 day before baking or leftovers stored up to 3 days.
- Optionally, substitute yellow mustard with Dijon mustard for a slightly tangier flavor.
- To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture.
