There’s nothing quite like the zesty aroma of a bubbling casserole wafting through your kitchen, promising comfort and joy in every cheesy bite. Picture this: creamy pasta, savory ground beef, and a delightful blend of spices all coming together to create the ultimate Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole – a dish that makes weeknight dinners feel like a festive feast! For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What’s the best cheese to use for Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole?
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- How do I make this dish vegetarian?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I first stumbled upon this glorious recipe during a particularly chaotic family gathering. Amidst the laughter and playful chaos, my aunt whipped up this dish that had everyone clamoring for seconds. It was love at first bite! Whether it’s game night or a cozy family dinner, this casserole is your go-to for deliciousness and simplicity. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This delightful casserole combines rich flavors with ease of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its vibrant colors and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing on any table. You can easily personalize it by adding your favorite veggies or toppings. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike! [/info_box]
Whenever I serve this Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole, my family can’t help but smile as they dig in, reminiscing about the fun times we’ve shared over this comforting meal.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: I recommend using elbow macaroni or penne for that perfect bite-sized piece that holds sauce well.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for balanced flavor without too much grease; turkey works too for a lighter option.
- Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give the dish an extra kick of flavor; you can never have too much cheese!
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when sautéed; use yellow or white onions for best results.
- Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for added nutrition and visual appeal; they bring crunch and sweetness.
- Ketchup: The star ingredient that ties everything together; choose your favorite brand for the best taste.
- Mustard: A dash of yellow mustard adds depth; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Garlic Powder: For an aromatic boost without chopping garlic; sprinkle generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to keep everything from sticking.
Cook the Pasta to Al Dente: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you whip up the delicious filling.
Sauté Ground Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet until softened—about 5-7 minutes—while stirring occasionally.
Add Flavorful Sauces and Spices: Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.
Combine Everything Together in One Bowl: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Fold in half of your grated cheddar cheese until melted into that gooey goodness we all crave.
Bake Until Golden Brown and Cheesy!: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
This Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter, warmth, and some serious comfort vibes! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you gather around the table with loved ones. And remember: good food brings us together!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comfort of pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup as easy as pie. The aroma will have your family gathering around the table faster than you can say, “Dinner’s ready!” [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef while cooking the pasta in a separate pot. This way, everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular cheese for pepper jack for extra spice or add in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For the best flavor, season your beef well with salt and pepper before cooking. Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Always let your casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to firm up! [/info_box]
Cooking this Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole reminds me of my college days when my roommates and I hosted weekly dinner parties. Everyone loved this dish!
FAQ
What’s the best cheese to use for Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole?
Shredded cheddar cheese works great, but feel free to mix types for more flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day before and bake it right before serving.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a tasty vegetarian version.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole, a delightful blend of creamy pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese. This dish transforms your weeknight dinners into a festive feast, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the beef mixture and half of the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Transfer to the prepared baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
