Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a delicious baked casserole. Topped with golden biscuits and filled with savory beef, gooey cheese, and a touch of ketchup and mustard, it’s a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Cut biscuits into quarters and arrange them on top of the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the biscuits, if desired.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
The Origins of Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is a fusion of two classic comfort foods: cheeseburgers and biscuit casseroles. The concept of using biscuits as a topping or crust in baked dishes is not new, but combining it with the flavors of a cheeseburger brings a creative and satisfying twist to the table. This dish has gained popularity in home kitchens due to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd. Its roots likely lie in the trend of creating hearty, easy-to-make casseroles, which became widely popular during the mid-20th century in the United States.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The combination of a meaty, flavorful beef filling with melty cheese and a biscuit topping makes for a satisfying, one-pan meal. The beef mixture is seasoned with classic cheeseburger condiments like ketchup and mustard, which infuse the dish with familiar flavors. The addition of biscuits provides a light, flaky contrast to the savory beef and cheese, making each bite irresistible. This dish offers the best of both worlds: comfort food that’s quick to prepare and sure to please everyone.
A Comforting Dinner for the Whole Family
This casserole is ideal for busy families or anyone looking for an easy and delicious dinner option. It’s a one-dish meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs, making it a balanced meal in itself. With minimal prep time and straightforward ingredients, Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is perfect for those evenings when you need something fast but still crave a comforting home-cooked meal.
Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the best features of this dish is its ability to be made in advance and stored for later. Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake can be assembled a day ahead of time and baked when needed, making it a perfect choice for meal prep. Leftovers can be easily stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick lunch or dinner the next day. The flavors even seem to improve after sitting for a bit, making it a great option for next-day meals.
Customizing the Recipe to Your Tastes
While the recipe is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. For example, you could swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to create a leaner version of the dish. If you’re a fan of spicy food, adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture will give it an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to change up the flavor profile.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrients
To boost the nutritional value of the dish, consider adding vegetables to the beef mixture. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great options that add flavor and vitamins. You can sauté the vegetables with the onion before adding them to the beef for a more even texture. Not only does this increase the dish’s nutritional content, but it also makes the casserole even more filling and satisfying.
How to Make It Gluten-Free
For those who are gluten intolerant or following a gluten-free diet, it’s easy to adapt this recipe. Simply substitute the refrigerated biscuits with a gluten-free version. Many gluten-free biscuit options are available at grocery stores, and they work just as well in this dish. Be sure to check the labels of any condiments used, such as ketchup or Worcestershire sauce, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Vegetarian Option: A Meatless Twist
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of this dish, consider using a plant-based meat alternative in place of the ground beef. Many grocery stores carry excellent meat substitutes that mimic the texture and flavor of ground beef. You could also use beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a more plant-based option. Adding extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots will help round out the dish and provide additional texture and flavor.
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake as a Party Dish
This casserole is also an excellent choice for parties or potlucks. It’s easy to make in large batches and can be sliced into individual servings for guests to grab. The dish has the comforting, familiar flavors that appeal to a wide range of people, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can also prepare the dish in smaller, individual portions to serve as appetizers or a fun twist on traditional sliders.
Why the Biscuit Topping is So Special
The biscuit topping is what sets this dish apart from other casseroles. When baked, the biscuits puff up and become golden and crispy on top, creating a delightful contrast with the rich, savory filling underneath. The biscuits soak up some of the beef and cheese flavors, adding a savory element that enhances the overall taste. The result is a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting, with each bite offering a balance of textures and flavors.
The Role of Cheese in This Dish
Cheese is a key ingredient in the Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake, adding creaminess and depth to the dish. Cheddar cheese, in particular, pairs wonderfully with the beef and adds a sharpness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the ketchup and mustard. The melted cheese binds everything together, making each bite satisfying and gooey. For those who love cheese, feel free to add more on top before baking to create an extra cheesy crust.
The Importance of Seasoning
While the ground beef provides a meaty base for the casserole, it’s the seasoning that gives the dish its signature cheeseburger flavor. Ketchup and mustard are key condiments that add tang and sweetness, while Worcestershire sauce deepens the savory taste of the beef. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper are essential for seasoning the meat, but you can experiment with additional spices like onion powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder to make the dish even more flavorful.
Using Leftover Beef for This Recipe
If you have leftover cooked ground beef from another meal, this recipe is a great way to repurpose it. Simply skip the first step of browning the beef and use your leftovers in place of the raw beef. This not only saves time but also reduces food waste. The other ingredients and seasonings will still provide plenty of flavor, making your leftovers taste just as delicious as when they were first cooked.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables, French fries, or a side of pickles for that true cheeseburger experience. If you’re serving it for a larger group, consider making a few different sides to ensure everyone’s preferences are covered.
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake for Special Occasions
While this dish is great for casual dinners, it can also be dressed up for special occasions. For a more festive touch, consider adding a topping of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing on the side can also elevate the dish and provide a creamy contrast to the savory flavors. These small touches can help transform a simple casserole into a meal worthy of a celebration.
The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Season
Whether it’s a cold winter night or a warm summer evening, Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. During the colder months, it provides the warmth and comfort needed to unwind after a long day. In the warmer months, it’s an easy option for a laid-back dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. Regardless of the season, this dish’s rich flavors and satisfying texture will always be appreciated.
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake as a Budget-Friendly Meal
Another great aspect of this dish is its affordability. Ground beef is relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of meat, and the cost of biscuits, cheese, and condiments is minimal. When served with simple sides, Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake becomes an economical option for feeding a family or group of friends. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing leftovers of this dish is simple. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for convenience. The leftovers taste just as delicious the next day, making it an ideal meal to enjoy throughout the week.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
If you’re looking for a quick dinner option after a busy day, Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is a fantastic choice. The recipe requires minimal hands-on time, and once it’s in the oven, you can relax while it bakes. The fact that it’s a one-pan dish means less cleanup afterward, making it even more convenient for hectic evenings. You can also prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger Biscuit Bake is a delightful and versatile dish that offers the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger in casserole form. With its savory beef filling, gooey cheese, and flaky biscuit topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for leftovers, or looking for a dish to bring to a party, this recipe delivers both flavor and ease. The ability to customize it with different ingredients and seasonings makes it a dish you can make your own.