What is Cheeseburger Casserole?

I’m asked this a lot on quick weeknights. Cheeseburger Casserole is a cheesy, beef-based pasta dish that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a single-pot meal. Ground meat, tomatoes, mustard, and cheddar melt into macaroni for a kid-friendly dinner that’s fast and comforting.

What is Dolly Parton casserole?

In my kitchen, Dolly Parton casserole is a playful local nickname rather than a single recipe. It refers to hearty, cheesy casseroles named in honor of the country star. Variations vary widely, and there’s no official version.

Why is it called a John Wayne casserole?

Same vibe as Dolly Parton—it's a nickname for a straightforward, no-nonsense, hearty dish. It’s more about the spirit of a simple, satisfying meal than one canonical recipe. I treat it as comfort food with practical flavor.

What kind of cheese is best in casserole?

My go-to is cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a great melt. Cheddar brings sharp flavor, while softer cheeses add creaminess. If you want variety, try Gruyere, pepper jack, or a blend that fits your taste and dietary needs.

Cheeseburger Casserole is ultimate delicious quick 30min.

Name: Cheeseburger Casserole is ultimate delicious quick 30min.
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked); 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth); 1½ cups milk; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp mustard; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Chopped pickles or parsley for garnish (optional)

Description

Cheeseburger Casserole is a quick, one-pot pasta dinner that captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1½ cups milk
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped pickles or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in uncooked macaroni, broth, milk, tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and sauce is thickened.
Stir in 1½ cups of the cheese until melted and combined.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover for 1–2 minutes until melted.
Garnish with chopped pickles or parsley if desired, then serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for the beef.
For extra creaminess, use milk with a higher fat content or add a splash of cream.
Leftovers refrigerate well for 3–4 days; reheat in microwave or on the stovetop.
Uncooked macaroni is cooked directly in the sauce; if using another pasta shape, adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Garnish with pickles or parsley for extra burger-inspired flavor.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 to 1/6 of the casserole)
Calories: Approximately 800 calories per serving
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 650–900 mg
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 15–22 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12–18 g
Trans Fat: 0–1 g
Carbohydrates: 45–60 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Protein: 28–40 g
Cholesterol: 130–180 mg

Keywords: Cheeseburger Casserole, cheeseburger pasta, one-pot meal, ground beef casserole, quick dinner, family-friendly dinner, 30 minute meal, American comfort food