The Ultimate Family Comfort: Easy Baked Cheeseburger Casserole

When it comes to easy weeknight dinner recipes, few things satisfy a hungry crowd quite like a Cheeseburger Casserole. Imagine the juicy, savory goodness of a premium burger—melted sharp cheddar cheese, seasoned ground beef, and a hint of smoky sweetness—all layered into a bubbly, golden-brown masterpiece. This is the ultimate “hug in a dish” for your family.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish is the perfect solution for busy parents and home cooks looking for gourmet comfort food that doesn’t require standing over a hot grill. It’s hearty, kid-friendly, and even better as leftovers the next day. By utilizing a one-pan baking method, you lock in the juices while creating those coveted crispy cheese edges that make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients: The Flavor Foundation

• Lean Ground Beef (1.5 lbs): The savory anchor of the dish. A 90/10 blend provides maximum protein with minimal grease.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 Cups): Essential for that iconic, tangy cheeseburger bite. Freshly grated cheese melts much smoother than the bagged kind.
• Yellow Onion & Fresh Garlic: These aromatics create a deep, savory base layer that elevates the meat’s natural profile.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): The secret to umami depth; it brings out the richness of the beef.
• Tomato Paste & Yellow Mustard: These mimic classic burger condiments, providing the necessary acidity to balance the fats.
• Heavy Cream & Beef Broth: Together, they form a velvety pan sauce that keeps the casserole moist and decadent.
• Smoked Paprika & Onion Powder: These spices provide a “char-grilled” finish without needing a barbecue.
• Fresh Chives: A final garnish to add a pop of color and a mild, fresh crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch ceramic baking dish to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the ground beef and onions until the meat is browned. Drain the excess fat thoroughly for a cleaner finish.
3. Seasoning Infusion: Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, mustard, and spices. Sauté for 2 minutes to “wake up” the flavors.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes until the liquid reduces into a thick, glossy sauce.
5. The Assembly: Pour the beef mixture into your baking dish. Spread it into an even layer with a spatula.
6. The Cheese Layer: Smother the top with your shredded cheddar. Don’t be shy—the cheese is the crown jewel of this dish!
7. The Final Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. For extra texture, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
8. Rest and Garnish: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with fresh chives and serve.

Serving Suggestions

To complete the meal, serve this savory casserole with crispy dill pickles, a side of sweet potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese.