Description
This Cheeseburger Casserole reimagines the classic American staple through culinary science, capturing the essential flavors of a flame-grilled patty in a cohesive one-pan dish.
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs Lean Ground Beef
12 oz Dry Macaroni or Penne
1 medium Yellow Onion, diced
3 large Garlic Cloves, minced
2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
1.5 cups Beef Broth
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1/2 cup Whole Milk
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta in salted water until two minutes shy of al dente. Drain and set aside
- Sear the Beef in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until a deep brown crust forms
- Sauté Aromatics by adding diced onions and cooking until translucent, then adding garlic for another minute
- Build the Sauce by stirring in tomato paste, mustard, and paprika, then whisk in broth and milk, simmering until thickened
- Combine Ingredients by folding cooked pasta and half cheese into the beef mixture, stirring until cheese melts
- The Final Bake: top with remaining cheese and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brow
- Rest and Serve for 5 minutes before plating
Notes
For best results, use starchy pasta water to thicken sauce if needed.
Temper dairy ingredients before adding to prevent grainy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg