Craving the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger with the comforting warmth of a baked pasta dish? This Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole brings both worlds together in one hearty, cheesy, and satisfying bake that the whole family will love. It’s layered with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, tangy tomato sauce, and a generous helping of melty cheese for the perfect weeknight dinner.

What makes this dish such a hit? It’s the kind of meal that tastes like home. The flavors are nostalgic and kid-approved, while still being grown-up enough to serve at a casual gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead and makes plenty for leftovers, which reheat like a dream.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these essential tools to make your kitchen experience smooth and mess-free:

Large Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef evenly and building flavor with seasoning.
Large Pot: Needed for boiling pasta to al dente; important so your casserole doesn’t get soggy.
Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps blend the sauce, meat, and pasta without breaking the noodles.

Colander: For draining the pasta quickly to avoid overcooking.
9×13 Casserole Dish: Ideal size for layering and baking everything together evenly.
Oven Mitts: Safety first when handling a hot casserole straight out of the oven.

Each of these tools supports a step in the recipe, ensuring the texture, timing, and taste all come together just right.

Ingredients for the Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Ground Beef: The base of the cheeseburger flavor. Rich, meaty, and satisfying.
Rotini Pasta: Holds sauce and cheese well with all its spirals. Cooked just until al dente.

Onion (chopped): Adds savory depth and that burger-like bite.
Garlic (minced): Boosts the overall flavor and aroma of the casserole.
Tomato Sauce: Creates a savory, slightly tangy base for the “cheeseburger” sauce.

Ketchup & Mustard: Classic burger condiments that give a nostalgic, familiar zing.
Cheddar Cheese (shredded): Melts perfectly and delivers gooey, sharp cheesiness.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances and balances the main ingredients.

How To Make the Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Flavor Base

Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in ketchup, mustard, and tomato sauce. Let simmer for 5 minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente. Drain using a colander.

Step 4: Combine and Layer

In a large mixing bowl or directly in the pot, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Mix well. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 casserole dish.

Step 5: Cheese It Up

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Serve and Store Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Serve hot and fresh from the oven with a side of green salad, garlic bread, or even dill pickles for a real cheeseburger vibe. This casserole is a meal in itself but plays well with crunchy textures and crisp sides.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or cover and bake at 350°F until warmed through. It also freezes well for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne, shells, or elbow macaroni are great alternatives. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.

Can this be made ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly and freeze. For best results, thaw overnight and then bake until hot and bubbly.

What kind of cheese can I substitute?

Feel free to use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend. For a smokier flavor, try smoked cheddar.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can be added during the skillet phase.

How can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or use pepper jack cheese to kick up the heat.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this hearty cheeseburger pasta casserole, check out these other savory baked dishes on Life With Olivia:

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a cheesy, creamy delight.
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole that’s like Thanksgiving in a pan.
Cheesy Pizza Tater Tot Casserole for a fun twist on pizza night.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for creamy, ham-and-chicken goodness.
Mexican Cornbread Casserole for a spicy, satisfying option.

Save This Recipe for Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with extra toppings or keep it classic? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Ask away if you have any questions — let’s make weeknight dinners easy and delicious!

Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 50 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

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Description

This Cheeseburger Pasta Dinner Casserole is a satisfying blend of cheesy, meaty goodness and tender pasta—perfect for a family-friendly meal or a comforting leftover. With hints of classic cheeseburger condiments and a gooey cheese topping, it’s a weeknight favorite you’ll want to make again and again.