Last Tuesday at 5:47 PM, I was standing in the kitchen with three hungry kids circling me like sharks—and I had no idea what to make. Sound familiar? That’s when I remembered the recipe my neighbor Karen once called her “emergency dinner.” Honestly, it’s become our Tuesday night tradition.

It’s quick, comforting, and uses pantry staples. Best of all? It keeps the sharks fed and happy.

Cheeseburger Casserole

Instructions

1. Prep
   Dice the onion, shred the cheese (or grab pre‑shredded).
2. Brown the beef
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium‑high. Add onion and beef. Cook 6–7 minutes until beef is browned and onion soft. Season with garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper.
3. Build flavor
   Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for 1 minute.
4. Add liquids
   Pour in 3¼ cups beef broth, tomatoes with juice, remaining salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Cook pasta
   Add macaroni directly to the pot. Cook about 10 minutes, stirring often. Add more broth if it looks dry.
6. Cheese time
   Remove from heat. Stir in 1½ cups cheese until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Finish
   Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Cover for 3 minutes to melt—or broil 2–3 minutes until golden.
8. Serve
   Garnish with parsley or green onions if you like.

Notes

• Chop tomatoes smaller or use petite diced for picky eaters.
• Reheats beautifully with a splash of milk or broth.
• Add veggies—frozen corn or peas work great.
• Keeps 4 days in the fridge.
• Ground turkey works too!