Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

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If the sound of a juicy cheeseburger layered into a bubbling pasta bake makes your stomach growl, this Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole is calling your name. It’s rich, cheesy, beefy, and packed with that classic cheeseburger flavor we all know and love—just in a more comforting, cozy form. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole delivers nostalgic vibes with every bite.

Made with spiral rotini pasta, seasoned ground beef, a tangy tomato base, and a hearty trio of melted cheeses, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It all comes together in one baking dish, making both prep and cleanup refreshingly simple.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

• It’s a full meal in one dish, making dinner a breeze.
• Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly thanks to the familiar cheeseburger flavor.
• Easily customizable with add-ins like pickles, bacon bits, or jalapeños.
• Stores well for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
• Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.

Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?

Absolutely! While rotini holds onto the sauce beautifully, other shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni will work just as well. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when baked.

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Ingredients

• Rotini pasta – Holds sauce well and provides great texture.
• Ground beef – Adds richness and that classic cheeseburger heartiness.
• Yellow onion – Brings in aromatic sweetness and depth.
• Garlic – Essential for flavoring the beef base.
• Tomato paste – Creates a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
• Beef broth – Adds moisture and enhances the meatiness.
• Ketchup – Adds that tangy burger-like sweetness.
• Yellow mustard – Boosts the burger vibe with a zingy edge.
• Cream cheese – Adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully for that gooey cheeseburger topping.
• Mozzarella cheese – Offers stretch and extra melty goodness.
• Salt and pepper – Basic seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
• Parsley (optional) – For a fresh, bright garnish.

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How To Make the Easy Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion. Cook until beef is no longer pink and onions are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste, ketchup, mustard, and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add in the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir in half the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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How to Serve This Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole

This recipe makes 8 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a true burger twist, top each serving with diced pickles or a drizzle of extra ketchup.

Best Way to Store Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months—just be sure it’s tightly wrapped.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

2. What cheese works best for this recipe?
A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives both flavor and stretch, but you can experiment with pepper jack, Colby, or Monterey Jack.

3. Can I substitute ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or even chicken works great if you’re looking for a leaner option.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a little heat.

5. What can I serve with this casserole?
Try pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, or a basket of buttery garlic knots.

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Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this cheeseburger pasta bake, you might also enjoy these comforting dishes:

• Runza Casserole for a Midwestern classic in casserole form.
• Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti for a creamy twist on pasta night.
• Old-Fashioned Goulash packed with nostalgia and flavor.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for that oozy Philly flair.
• Wholesome Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake when you want something hearty but lighter.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you sneak in bacon? Maybe add some heat with jalapeños? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

For more comforting casseroles and dinner ideas, follow me on Life With Livia.

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