Cheeseburger Casserole

1 . Stage

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

2 . Stage

Boil the pasta: Put a large pot of salted water on to boil (1 tablespoon salt for every 2 quarts of water). Once the water has reached a rolling boil, add the dry pasta, and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 9 to 11 minutes, until mostly cooked through but still a bit firm to the bite.  Using a colander, drain and set to the side.

3 . Stage

Cook the ground beef: As the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.  Season with oregano, sea salt, black pepper, chili powder, and ground cumin. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

4 . Stage

Add the butter and aromatics: Add the butter, onions, garlic, and tomato puree to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir until all ingredients are combined.

5 . Stage

Combine the pasta and ground beef: Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Add the heavy whipping cream, chicken stock, parsley, basil, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until combined.

6 . Stage

Add to a casserole dish: Transfer to a 9x13-inch casserole dish (no need to grease) and top with the remaining cheese.

7 . Stage

Bake: Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is browned and bubbly.

8 . Stage

Serve and store: For a looser casserole, serve right away. For a casserole that holds its shape a bit, let sit 10 minutes before serving.  The casserole will keep, refrigerated in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it by storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave or place in the oven at 350°F oven until it is heated through (this will depend on the portion size you are reheating). Did you love the recipe? Leave us stars below!