Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta Bake
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I love a dinner recipe that comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients, and this Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta Bake is exactly that kind of meal. It is easy to make, family friendly, and full of comforting flavors that make it perfect for a busy night. Even though the ingredient list is simple, this saucy pasta bake turns out surprisingly delicious and is sure to become one of those recipes you keep coming back to.
This dish combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger in an easy baked pasta form. The ground beef is seasoned with hamburger seasoning, which gives it that classic burger flavor, then mixed with pasta, tomato soup, and shredded cheese. As it bakes, everything comes together into a warm, cheesy, saucy dinner that is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding the whole family.
Ingredients for Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta Bake
- GROUND BEEF
- HAMBURGER SEASONING
- MEDIUM SHELL PASTA
- CONDENSED TOMATO SOUP
- WATER
- CHEDDAR CHEESE
Instructions for Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta Casserole
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Once it is cooked, drain it and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, preheat the oven to 375 degrees and lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Next, place the ground beef in a large skillet and cook over medium heat until it is fully browned. Break it up as it cooks, then drain off any excess grease. Stir in the hamburger seasoning so the beef is evenly coated with flavor.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the tomato soup, water, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir everything together until it is well combined, and the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, then cover the dish with foil. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted and just starting to turn golden. Serve warm. This recipe makes 6 servings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Any short pasta shape like rotini, penne, shells, or elbow macaroni should work well in this recipe.
Do I have to use hamburger seasoning?
No. The hamburger seasoning adds great flavor, but you could also use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder if needed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.
Can I freeze cheeseburger pasta bake?
Yes. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Just make sure it is well covered and stored in a freezer-safe container.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar is a great choice because it gives the dish that classic cheeseburger flavor. Colby Jack or a cheddar blend would also work well.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes. Diced onions, red peppers, or even mushrooms can be cooked with the beef if you want to add extra flavor and texture.
Why do I cook the pasta only to al dente?
Cooking the pasta to al dente helps keep it from getting too soft while it finishes baking in the oven.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes. Ground turkey can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with cheeseburger pasta bake?
This dish pairs well with a green salad, steamed green beans, garlic bread, or fresh fruit for an easy complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
- Cook the pasta just to al dente. Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, this helps keep it from becoming too soft.
- Drain the beef well. Removing any excess grease keeps the pasta bake from becoming too oily.
- Use freshly shredded cheese if possible. Freshly shredded cheese usually melts better and gives the dish a creamier texture.
- Stir everything together well. Make sure the pasta, beef, soup, water, and cheese are evenly mixed so every bite has plenty of flavor.
- Cover it for the first part of baking. Covering the dish with foil helps it heat through evenly and keeps the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Remove the foil at the end. Baking it uncovered for the last few minutes helps the cheese melt fully and get lightly golden on top.
- Add extras if you want more cheeseburger flavor. Diced onions, a little mustard, or even chopped pickles served on top can give it more of that cheeseburger feel.
- Make it ahead for busy nights. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Pair it with a simple side. A green salad, fruit, or steamed vegetables make a great easy side for this hearty pasta bake.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
- Loaded Cheeseburger Bowls
- Cheesy Ground Beef Quesadillas
- Homemade Cheesy Italian Shells
- Easy Shells and Cheese
Cheesy Cheeseburger Pasta Bake
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb box medium shell pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp hamburger seasoning
- 21 ½ oz can tomato soup two (10 3/4 oz) cans
- water
- 3 cups cheese shredded (I used a combination of cheddar and monterrrey jack)
Instructions
- Cook pasta accoring to packcage directions until al dente.
- Preheat oven fo 375 degreee and spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a skillet, brown the beef until fully cooked and season with the hamburger seasoning. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the cooked pasta, along with the tomato soup, water, and half the shredded cheese, to the skillet with the beef. Stir until combined and pour into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the mixture. Cover with foil.
- Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. Remove the foil from the pan and bake for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is starting to brown. Serves 6.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from The Lazy Dish.
