Grandma’s Classic Cheeseburger Casserole (Family Favorite for 50+ Years!)

Some recipes feed you, and then some recipes nurture your soul. This Cheeseburger Casserole falls firmly into the latter category. When I was growing up, my grandmother made this hearty dish whenever the family gathered. The kitchen would fill with the mouthwatering aroma of seasoned beef, sizzling bacon, and melting cheese. One bite of this casserole instantly transports me back to her warm kitchen, where stories were shared around the table and second helpings were always encouraged. It’s no wonder this has remained my favorite casserole of all time – it’s more than food; it’s a cherished memory on a plate.

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Why This Cheeseburger Casserole Stands Out From the Rest

What makes this one special enough to be passed down through generations in a world overflowing with casserole recipes?

• No shortcuts or processed ingredients – Unlike many modern versions, this authentic recipe uses real, wholesome ingredients without relying on boxed mixes
• Perfect flavor balance – The combination of two kinds of cheese, smoky bacon, and perfectly seasoned beef creates layers of flavor that processed versions can’t match
• Proven crowd-pleaser – This recipe has won over families and potluck gatherings since 1967 (my grandmother’s original recipe date!)
• Versatile foundation – While delicious as written, this recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have on hand
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be prepped days in advance

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Macaroni – Forms the hearty base that absorbs all the savory flavors while providing satisfying texture
• Lean ground beef – Provides protein-rich, savory foundation that gives this dish its “cheeseburger” essence
• Bacon – Adds smoky depth and irresistible flavor that elevates this casserole beyond ordinary pasta dishes
• White onion – Creates aromatic sweetness that balances the richness of the meats
• Tomato sauce – It delivers tangy moisture and binding for all the ingredients while adding subtle acidity
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors and brings the dish into perfect balance
• Black pepper – Adds mild heat and classic seasoning that complements the beef
• Garlic salt – Contributes savory depth with a hint of garlic intensity without the need for fresh cloves
• Dried oregano – Provides herbal notes that give the dish an Italian-inspired undertone
• Mushrooms – Add earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the ground beef
• Provolone cheese – Creates a gooey, stretchy texture with a mild flavor that melts beautifully
• Cheddar cheese – Delivers sharp, tangy flavor and that signature orange color of classic cheeseburgers

How To Make This Easy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

To prepare this recipe:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease or spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Boil a pot of water and prepare the macaroni as directed on the package.
3. While the pasta is boiling, cook the ground beef in a large skillet on the stove. Drain and set the browned beef aside.

4. Add the bacon and onions to the skillet and saute until softened. Drain and return them to the skillet.

5. Return the beef to the pan with the bacon and onions.
6. Drain the cooked macaroni well and dump it into the skillet with the meat mixture.
7. Add the mushrooms, seasonings, tomato sauce, and other vegetables if using.

8. Simmer for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.
9. Spoon half of the pasta and beef mixture into the greased casserole or baking dish.
10. Cover with half the cheese.
11. Repeat with the remaining meat and pasta mixture and cheese. 

12. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
13. Cool the baked casserole for five minutes before serving. 

What to Serve With Cheeseburger Casserole

Lighter Side Dishes

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli with lemon
• Roasted asparagus
• Cucumber and tomato salad

Heartier Options

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Corn on the cob
• Baked beans
• Potato wedges or sweet potato fries

Complete Menu Ideas

• Family Dinner: Cheeseburger Casserole + Green Salad + Garlic Bread
• Potluck Star: Cheeseburger Casserole + Roasted Vegetables + Dinner Rolls
• Comfort Food Night: Cheeseburger Casserole + Corn on the Cob + Coleslaw

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Storage

For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating for Best Results

Oven Method (Preferred):

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Place casserole in an oven-safe dish
3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of beef broth or stock over the top
4. Cover with aluminum foil
5. Heat for 20 minutes or until hot throughout

Microwave Method:

1. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate
2. Cover with a damp paper towel
3. Heat on 70% power for 2 minutes
4. Stir if possible
5. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until heated through

Slow Cooker Adaptation

For busy days when you won’t be home to monitor the oven, try this slow cooker version:

1. Partially cook the pasta for 4 minutes (it will continue cooking in the slow cooker)
2. Cook bacon separately, refrigerate for later
3. Sauté onions and mushrooms in bacon fat, then brown the ground beef
4. Transfer meat mixture to slow cooker
5. Add partially cooked pasta and remaining ingredients except bacon
6. Cook on HIGH for 2.5-3 hours
7. Add crumbled bacon during the last 30 minutes
8. Switch to WARM setting until ready to serve

Favorite Dinner Casserole Recipes

• Chicken Noodle Casserole
• Chili Relleno Casserole
• Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole
• Homemade Hamburger Helper Beef Stroganoff
• Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole
• Pork Chop and Rice Casserole
• Reuben Casserole
• Sausage and Rice Casserole
• Spaghetti Casserole
• Taco Casserole with Corn Tortillas

Popular Cheeseburger Recipes

• Cheeseburger Omelette
• Cheeseburger Quesadilla
• Cheeseburger Soup

Check out more of my easy and tasty casserole recipes and favorite family recipes on CopyKat!

This recipe is by Ethel Eynard. Jefferson City, Mo. 1967.