Crockpot Cheeseburger Casserole

If you're craving a hearty, cheesy, family-style dinner, this Crockpot Cheeseburger Casserole is a must-try. It combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger-savory ground beef, gooey cheddar, and tender pasta-with the ease of a slow cooker. This is one of those dinners I throw together on busy days when I know we'll roll in late and everyone's starving, but still want something cozy and homemade on the table.

Love cozy slow cooker meals? Don't miss our Crockpot Mac and Cheese or Beef and Mushroom Slow Cooker Stew. And for more busy day meals, check out our full collection of easy slow cooker recipes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Easy, one-pot comfort food: Brown the beef, then let the slow cooker take over-no fancy steps, no babysitting the stove.
• Family-approved flavors: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with familiar cheeseburger taste that even picky eaters tend to love.
• Perfect for busy weeknights: Works great on those nights when you don't have much energy left.
• Great leftovers (if you have any): It reheats really well for lunch the next day-if your crew doesn't polish off the whole pot.

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients You Will Need

• Ground beef: Lean ground beef keeps the casserole hearty and filling without being too greasy.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and savory flavor that makes this taste more like a real cheeseburger.
• Garlic: Brings a nice punch of flavor-add it right at the end so it doesn't burn.
• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning: Simple pantry seasonings that make the beef mixture extra flavorful.
• Beef broth: Provides the liquid the pasta needs to cook right in the slow cooker and adds rich, beefy flavor.
• Greek yogurt: Makes the sauce creamy and tangy, similar to sour cream but with extra protein.
• Whole milk: Helps create a smooth, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta.
• Tomato paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor to mimic that classic cheeseburger vibe.
• Cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts into a rich, creamy sauce. I always recommend shredding your own cheese here so the sauce turns out extra smooth.
• Pasta: Short pasta like shells, elbow macaroni, or rotini works best and holds the sauce in every bite.

how to make cheeseburger casserole

1. Step 1 - Build the beef mixture in the pan
   Sauté the onion in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, then stir in the tomato paste until it's fully combined. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and everything is well combined.

2. Step 2 - Add half of the beef broth
   As the ground beef finishes cooking, slowly add about half of the beef broth, pouring in roughly ¼ cup at a time and stirring after each addition so the broth mixes into the beef mixture.

3. Step 3 - Transfer to the crockpot and cook with pasta
   When the ground beef is cooked through, transfer everything from the frying pan into the crockpot. Add the remaining beef broth and stir to combine. Cover and cook on High for 2-3 hours or Low for 4-5 hours, until hot and bubbly. Then stir in the uncooked pasta, milk, and Greek yogurt, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged. Cover again and cook for another 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

4. Step 4 - Add the cheese and serve
   Stir in the shredded cheese until it's melted and the casserole is thick and creamy. Top with extra cheese if desired, let it melt, then serve warm.

expert tips

• Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents and doesn't melt as smoothly. Taking a minute to grate your own cheddar makes the sauce so much creamier.
• Stick with short pasta: Shells, elbows, or rotini cook more evenly and soak up the sauce better than long noodles.
• Watch the pasta the first time: Add the pasta near the end and check it early. Once you know how your slow cooker behaves, you'll know your perfect timing for next time.
• Don't be afraid to thin the sauce: If the casserole thickens as it sits, stir in a splash of warm milk or broth just before serving to loosen it up.
• Add bacon or veggies: Top with bacon bits for a bacon cheeseburger twist, or sauté diced pepper with the onion. You can even wilt a handful of spinach by adding it with the pasta.
• Play with the cheese: Try pepper jack for a little heat, or mozzarella for a milder, extra-gooey casserole.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free noodles and adjust the cook time as needed.

faq's

Storage

Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

what to serve with crockpot cheeseburger casserole

• This recipe pairs great with a salad. Try our black bean, corn, and avocado salad or our Asian Broccoli Slaw
• Don't forget dessert! Try our Chocolate Loaf Cake or our Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars.

more easy slow cooker recipes to try