Name: Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
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

Why You’ll Love Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

This casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: easy to prepare, filling, and packed with flavor. The BBQ sauce gives it a smoky-sweet kick, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness and crunch. It’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and made with pantry staples. Best of all, it’s incredibly customizable—perfect for picky eaters or using up leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Preheat your 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 until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
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 rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per serving: 420 kcal

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Different Cheese: Swap cheddar with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, black beans, or diced tomatoes for more texture and nutrients.
Tater Tots Topping: Replace pasta with a layer of tater tots on top for a crispy twist.
Bacon Bits: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for extra savory flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes or until hot. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, covered with foil. For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

You can assemble the entire casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and bake as directed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be sure to season it well for maximum flavor.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce you love will work, but a smoky or honey BBQ sauce adds a nice depth to the dish.

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Absolutely. Just thaw and drain the corn before mixing it into the casserole.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure not to overbake and consider covering it with foil during the first half of baking if your oven runs hot.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Mushrooms, peas, or diced zucchini would all blend well with the existing flavors.

Does this freeze well after baking?

Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this hearty dish.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes as needed.

Conclusion

Loaded Cowboy Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious, down-home meal that delivers on both flavor and convenience. With its combination of cheesy, smoky, and savory ingredients, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy freezer-friendly meal, this casserole checks every box.