A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a baked dish. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or elbow macaroni work well)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onions. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, browned ground beef mixture, drained corn kernels, BBQ sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve the other half for topping). Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- It’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- It’s a complete meal in one dish, combining protein, carbs, and vegetables.
- It’s customizable – feel free to add other vegetables or change up the cheese.
- It’s budget-friendly, making it a great option for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
- Kids love it! The cheeseburger flavor is always a hit.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, directly from the oven.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Offer a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing can add extra creaminess.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for mopping up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef while browning.
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Add other vegetables such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
- If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you can use ketchup mixed with a little brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.
- To prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 450 (per serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion:
The Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Its comforting flavors and simple ingredients make it a family favorite. With customizable options and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne and elbow macaroni are classic choices, but you can use any short pasta shape you like. Rotini, farfalle (bowties), or even small shells would work well.
Q2: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, such as lentils, crumbled tofu, or a commercial vegetarian ground beef substitute.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Q4: Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella would all be delicious.
Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: While it’s best baked, you can adapt it for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions as instructed. Then, combine all ingredients (except half the cheese) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through. Top with remaining cheese and let it melt before serving.
