Cheeseburger casserole

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped pickles and chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Condiments:
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), ketchup, and mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine with Pasta:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the beef mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the milk and let it warm up (do not boil). Gradually add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
7. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Pour the beef and macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
8. Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Optional: Garnish with chopped pickles and fresh parsley before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g

Enjoy your comforting and delicious cheeseburger casserole, a perfect family-friendly meal!