Description
This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining ground beef, cheddar cheese, corn, pasta, and BBQ sauce into a comforting baked casserole. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, it delivers classic cowboy flavors with the convenience of a one-dish bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or elbow)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onions. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned beef and onion mixture, drained corn kernels, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly so all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer the mixture into the dish spreading it evenly for uniform cooking and browning.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top has melted and turned golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting cowboy-style meal.
Notes
- Using cooked pasta helps ensure the casserole cooks evenly without needing extra liquid.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly for the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking cold.
