Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne work well)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• 1 cup crushed potato chips (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Mix in the Sauce: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and Italian seasoning (if using). Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
6. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
8. Top with Cheese and Chips: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, followed by crushed potato chips if desired for extra crunch.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, hearty casserole!