High-Protein Cheeseburger Casserole

This High-Protein Cheeseburger Casserole brings together lean beef, whole wheat pasta, and melty cheese in a comforting, family-friendly bake — all while supporting your health and fitness goals.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American Comfort

Keyword cheeseburger casserole, healthy comfort food, high-protein dinner, meal prep casserole

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Calories 420kcal

Author Ellie

Cost 4

Equipment

large skillet
9x13-inch baking dish
mixing bowl
cooking pot
spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
2 cups whole wheat rotini pasta
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup diced tomatoes (no salt added)
1/2 cup tomato paste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
In a large bowl, mix the beef sauce with the cooked pasta until well combined.
Transfer mixture into the baking dish and sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Customize with your favorite cheese or add-ins like pickles, spinach, or jalapeños. To make it gluten-free, use lentil or chickpea pasta. Freezes well for up to 3 months and perfect for meal prep!

Nutrition