Macaroni Cheeseburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining creamy cheese, savory ground meat, and pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil elbow macaroni as directed; drain.
- Brown ground meat and sauté chopped onion; drain excess fat.
- Add cream of celery soup, milk, and dry mustard to the meat and onion mixture; mix well.
- Lay chunks of Velveeta cheese on top of the mixture to melt.
- Divide cooked macaroni into two casseroles.
- Pour the sauce over the macaroni in both casseroles.
- Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Cover the casseroles with lids or foil.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and turkey or even a vegetarian substitute if desired. You can also enhance the dish with spices like garlic powder or paprika. If Velveeta isn't available, any creamy cheese can work, but ensure it melts well. For an extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with garlic bread or even a slice of Cloud Nine Cake for dessert. For a fun twist, add pickles on the side for a true cheeseburger experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry. This casserole also freezes well; just thaw before reheating for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Cheeseburger Casserole contains roughly 677 calories, with 34g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1243mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to achieve the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you're ready to cook it.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).