Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheeseburger Mac and Cheese Casserole! A delicious twist on two classic recipes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
3. Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, cheddar cheese soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Add cooked ground beef mixture and macaroni. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
**Nutrition Information:**
– Serving Size: 1 cup
– Calories: 380
– Total Fat: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 65mg
– Sodium: 560mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 31g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 6g
– Protein: 22g
**Popular Questions:**
1. **Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?**
– Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
2. **What can I use as a substitute for cheddar cheese soup?**
– You can use a mixture of shredded cheddar cheese and a bit of milk or cream as a substitute.
3. **Can I add vegetables to this casserole?**
– Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
4. **Can I make this ahead of time?**
– Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
5. **Can I freeze leftovers?**
– Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bags.
6. **How can I make this dish spicier?**
– Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for some heat.
7. **Is it possible to use a different type of pasta?**
– You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
8. **Can I add bacon to this recipe?**
– Crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition to this cheesy dish.
9. **Is it necessary to use diced tomatoes?**
– You can use fresh diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce as a substitute.
10. **Can I top this casserole with breadcrumbs for added crunch?**
– Yes, breadcrumbs can be sprinkled on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. Mix in some cooked crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
2. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the beefy flavor.
3. Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
5. For a creamy sauce, add a dollop of cream cheese to the mixture.
6. Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.
7. Try adding some cooked and crumbled sausage for a different flavor profile.
8. Top with pickles or jalapeños for a fun twist on a cheeseburger.
9. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
10. Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy future meal.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Brown the ground beef well for maximum flavor.
2. Mix in a spoonful of mustard for a tangy kick.
3. Be generous with the shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
4. Stir in a bit of ketchup for a classic cheeseburger taste.
5. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
6. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set.
7. Consider adding a sprinkle of paprika or chili powder for added depth of flavor.
8. Use a lean ground beef to minimize excess grease in the dish.
9. Customize with your favorite burger toppings like caramelized onions or pickles.
10. Get creative with different cheese blends such as Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique taste.
