This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, BBQ sauce, corn, and pasta, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner with friends. The savory combination of ingredients makes each bite a satisfying experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple to make yet so delicious! It’s a one-dish meal that combines the best of comfort food: cheesy goodness, the smoky flavor of BBQ sauce, and a satisfying mix of meat, corn, and pasta. Plus, the recipe is very flexible — I can easily adjust it to suit my taste or what I have in my kitchen. The whole family will enjoy it, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1 can corn kernels, drained
1 cup cooked pasta (penne or elbow)
1/2 cup diced onions
Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with diced onions, salt, and pepper over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned beef mixture, drained corn, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted on top.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Variations
Add some heat: For a spicier version, I like to add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture.
Swap the pasta: If I’m feeling adventurous, I can try different types of pasta like rotini or farfalle for a fun twist.
Make it a veggie option: For a meatless version, I can substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils.
Add bacon: If I want to make it even heartier, I can sprinkle some cooked bacon bits on top before baking.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, I let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, I can microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.
Related Recipes:
- Loaded Cheeseburger Alfredo Pasta
- Quick & Easy Cheeseburger Casserole
- Air Fryer Loaded Cheeseburger Egg Rolls
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?
Yes! While I use cheddar cheese, you can easily swap it for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer. I like mixing different types of cheese for extra flavor!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often assemble the casserole a day before and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready, I just pop it in the oven for the recommended baking time.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, I can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and then cook it as directed.
What kind of pasta should I use for this recipe?
I prefer penne or elbow pasta, but really, any pasta shape works! I like to use what I have on hand or experiment with different shapes to keep things interesting.
Can I add more veggies to the casserole?
Definitely! I’ve added bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrition. It’s a great way to make the casserole more colorful and flavorful.
Conclusion
Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that brings the whole family together for a delicious meal. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and can be customized to fit different tastes or dietary preferences. Whether I’m looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish that will last for leftovers, this casserole always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending ground beef, BBQ sauce, corn, pasta, and melted cheddar cheese into a hearty, satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is customizable and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish with leftovers, this recipe checks all the boxes.
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 the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions, salt, and pepper over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned beef mixture, drained corn, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted on top.
- Serve: Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Variations: Add diced jalapeños for spice, swap the pasta for a fun shape, or substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a veggie version. You can also sprinkle cooked bacon bits on top for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Comfort Food, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 420 kcal
