Garlic Butter Cheeseburger Casserole | Comfort Food Made Easy

Introduction

Looking for a weeknight dinner that combines all your favorite flavors in one dish? This Garlic Butter Cheeseburger Casserole is loaded with savory ground beef, gooey melted cheese, tender pasta, and a buttery garlic sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

It’s essentially a deconstructed cheeseburger in a casserole — all the flavor with less mess, plus it’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family. Bonus: it’s ready in under an hour!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Optional toppings: diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, extra cheddar, fresh parsley

✨ Substitutions & Tips:

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Swap cheddar for Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• Gluten-free pasta works well for a GF version.

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Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking, then stir in Dijon mustard and 1 cup cheddar cheese until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ground beef, and garlic butter sauce. Stir in remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with diced pickles, chopped tomatoes, or fresh parsley for an extra burger-inspired touch. Serve warm.

💡 Pro Tip: Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving — it helps it set and makes it easier to portion.

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Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g

Rich in protein and calcium, this casserole is a filling comfort meal for the whole family.

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Healthier Alternatives

• Use whole-wheat or chickpea pasta to increase fiber.
• Substitute some or all cheese with a reduced-fat version.
• Use ground turkey or chicken to reduce fat content.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness.
• Pair with garlic bread for a carb-lover’s dream meal.
• Perfect for lunchboxes — just reheat in the microwave.
• Garnish with pickles, diced tomatoes, or hot sauce to mimic a burger experience.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Al dente works best as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Not seasoning the beef properly: Use salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for full flavor.
• Skipping the cheese in sauce: This adds creaminess and prevents the casserole from being dry.
• Baking too long: Cheese may burn — keep an eye on it for golden-bubbly perfection.

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Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave individual servings or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
• Freezer: Casserole can be frozen unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

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Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — cheesy, garlicky, and packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the hassle. It’s quick, family-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Give it a try and watch it disappear fast!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rotini, penne, or shells all work well.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day before and bake fresh.

Q3: Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, but thaw first for even cooking.

Q4: Can I add veggies?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.

Q5: Can I make it low-carb?
Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta for a keto-friendly version.