Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving all the juicy goodness of a cheeseburger but want it in an easy yet comforting one-dish meal, this Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s like your favorite burger smashed together with creamy pasta, melted cheese, and those classic tangy toppings — except it’s cozy, warm, and perfect for feeding a crowd. I always find this recipe a huge hit when friends drop by or when I want a fuss-free dinner that feels special without a lot of babysitting at the stove.

One reason I love this Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is how versatile it is and how everything melds together into pure comfort food heaven. The ground beef simmers with all the seasoning, the rotini soaks up a rich, flavorful sauce, and the topping of toasted bread cubes with melted cheddar adds that incredible texture contrast. If you need a tried-and-true dinner that feels indulgent but is still simple to make, this is a gem you’re going to want to bookmark.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe uses classic cheeseburger ingredients but combines them in a way that elevates each component. The ground beef is seasoned simply so you can really enjoy the layers of flavor from the broth, mustard, and ketchup, while the rotini pasta soaks everything up like a delicious sponge.

• Ground beef: I prefer 90/10 to get great flavor without too much grease.
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder: Simple seasonings that build a tasty base for the beef.
• White onion: Adds sweetness and depth when softened properly.
• Salted butter: Creates a silky roux with the flour for the creamy sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings to the pasta beautifully.
• Rotini pasta: Its spirals hold the sauce perfectly, capturing every bit of that cheeseburger flavor.
• Beef broth: Adds robust umami; don’t skimp here—use a good quality one.
• Heavy cream: For richness and that luscious texture that makes the sauce velvety.
• Ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard: The holy trinity of cheeseburger flavor, giving the dish tang and depth.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best melty, cheesy top layer.
• Hamburger buns: Cubed and toasted on top, they add an irresistible crunch and a hint of that burger bun flavor.
• Sliced dill pickles (optional): Adds that classic pickle bite, if you love them like I do.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love making this casserole my own by swapping out a few ingredients or adding a bit of extra flair. You can really make the Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe work for your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand in the fridge.

• Variation: Sometimes I swap out rotini for macaroni or penne for an even heartier feel—it holds the sauce well either way.
• Cheese Choices: Mixing in a little mozzarella or Monterey Jack with the cheddar can make the cheese layer gooier and milder if you prefer.
• Make it Spicy: Adding a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños gives this casserole a fun spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth—just as satisfying!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Soften the Onion

Start by heating your skillet or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder right away—this layers the flavor nicely. Cook until mostly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes, then add the diced onion and cook together until the onion is soft and translucent, around 5 more minutes. This step builds a rich base with that sweet onion flavor mingling with the beef.

Step 2: Make the Roux and Add the Pasta

Next, toss in the butter and melt it fully, then stir in the all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring regularly—this cooks out the raw flour taste and starts thickening the sauce. Then add the dry rotini pasta along with beef broth, heavy cream, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every few minutes so the pasta doesn’t stick and cooks evenly until it’s tender but still has a slight bite.

Step 3: Top and Bake Until Bubbling

Once your pasta is just right and the sauce is thickened, remove the pot from the heat. Evenly spread the cubed hamburger buns over the top—this adds a wonderful toasted texture once baked. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle the chopped dill pickles if you’re using them. Slide the whole thing into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread cubes have turned a gorgeous golden brown. Then, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a handful of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top; it adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast. And of course, some extra dill pickle slices on the side are always welcome for that classic zesty crunch that cheeseburgers are known for.

Side Dishes

This casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but I love pairing it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Crispy oven fries or sweet potato wedges make excellent sides too, especially if you’re serving a crowd craving classic burger fixings.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual gatherings, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets—it’s fun and feels a little fancy. You can also layer the toppings differently, adding sliced tomatoes or caramelized onions on top before baking for a sweeter, richer twist on the classic flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, I cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to airtight containers. This casserole reheats beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, making it a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner option.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a couple of times with great results. Just skip baking it the first time, cool after simmering, then cover tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. The texture holds up nicely, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually 15-20 minutes. This keeps the cheese from drying out. You can also add a sprinkle of water or broth if it seems dry. Microwaving is fine for a quick fix, but the oven gives the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s hearty, approachable, and brings people together easily whether you’re feeding family or friends. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to comfort dinner. Give it a try soon, and I bet you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!

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