Cheeseburger Casserole

Cheeseburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the ease and convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this hearty casserole is a family favorite that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the dinner table.

A Fusion of Flavors and Textures

Imagine the juicy, savory taste of ground beef mingled with the creamy, melted goodness of cheddar cheese, all layered over a bed of tender pasta or crispy tater tots. The addition of tangy pickles, sweet onions, and rich tomato sauce gives it that authentic cheeseburger taste, while the crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch.

1. 8 ounces macaroni noodles
   
2. 6 slices bacon coarsely chopped
   
3. 1 pound ground beef I use 90% lean
   
4. 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
   
5. 16 ounces tomato sauce canned
   
6. 1/4 cup ketchup
   
7. 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
   
8. 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided use
   
9. salt and pepper to taste
   

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Coat an 8 inch or 2 quart baking dish with cooking spray.
   
2. Cook macaroni in salted water according to package directions.
   
3. Place the bacon in a large pan over medium high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until bacon is browned and crisp.
   
4. Remove bacon from the pan and set aside.
   
5. Drain off most of the bacon fat, leaving 2 teaspoons remaining in the pan.
   
6. Add the ground beef to the pan and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
   
7. 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
   
8. assorted toppings such as pickles, tomatoes and shredded lettuce
   
9. cooking spray
   
10. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula into small pieces, until browned. This should take 4-5 minutes.
    
11. Add the onion and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until onion has softened.
    
12. Add the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard and half of the bacon to the pan. Stir to coat the ground beef with the sauce.
    
13. Drain the macaroni and add it to the pan with the beef mixture.
    
14. Add half the cheddar cheese to the pan with the pasta; stir until everything is combined and cheese is melted.
    
15. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Top with the remaining cheese.
    
16. Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbly.
    
17. Top with reserved bacon and parsley, as well as other toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce and chopped pickles.
    
18. Let stand 5 minutes, then serve.