If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that blends savory, cheesy goodness with the warm, flaky perfection of biscuits, look no further than the Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole. This hearty dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining the bold flavors of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and Cheddar Bay Biscuits, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
This recipe takes inspiration from the iconic Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits and elevates them with a satisfying, meat-based filling that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a warm dish for a chilly evening, this casserole will not disappoint. If you’re unfamiliar with casseroles, check out this Wikipedia article on casseroles for a quick overview of how they’ve become a staple in American kitchens.
Thanks to simple pantry staples and quick prep time, this casserole is as practical as it is delicious. To make your own version even better, consider learning more about ground beef options and how to select the right blend for your dish. You can also browse pinterest boards full of casserole recipes for visual inspiration and customization ideas.
🧂 Ingredients breakdown
The success of this Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, which offer balance, richness, and texture. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you’ll need:
-
1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (such as Red Lobster brand)
-
1 cup water – to activate the biscuit mix
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp cheddar works best for flavor
-
2 pounds ground beef – ideally 80/20 blend for juiciness
-
½ yellow onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the beef’s natural flavor
-
1 teaspoon onion powder – boosts the aromatic profile
-
Salt & pepper to taste – balance is key here
-
2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup – provides the creamy texture
-
½ cup sour cream – adds tang and richness
-
¼ cup melted butter – used to brush the biscuit topping
-
Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend – included with biscuit mix or homemade substitute
If you’re unfamiliar with certain ingredients, you can refer to helpful resources like cream of mushroom soup and sour cream on Wikipedia for detailed information. These components are the backbone of the dish, and understanding their function will help you master this recipe.
For those interested in experimenting or customizing, browsing through Cheddar Bay Biscuit recipes on Pinterest can offer visual guidance and ideas.
🍳 Kitchen tools & equipment needed
While this recipe is straightforward, having the right kitchen tools will streamline the process and ensure the casserole comes out perfectly every time.
-
Mixing bowls – for both the biscuit mix and meat filling
-
Large skillet – to cook the ground beef and onions
-
Casserole dish (9×13 inch) – ideal size for this volume
-
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy matters
-
Pastry brush – for applying the garlic herb butter
-
Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and mixing
-
Oven thermometer – optional but helpful for baking accuracy
These common tools ensure even cooking, easy cleanup, and professional results even in a home kitchen.
👩🍳 Step-by-step instructions with tips
Follow these easy steps to make a Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole that’s bubbling with flavor and topped with golden, cheesy biscuits.
Step 1: Preheat oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). It’s important that the oven is fully heated before you place the casserole inside for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare biscuit dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, 1 cup water, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until just combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Brown the beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 2 pounds of ground beef with ½ diced yellow onion. Cook until browned and no pink remains, then drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Season and mix the filling
Add 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the two cans of cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup sour cream, and the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the casserole
Pour the beef mixture into a 9×13 inch greased casserole dish. Scoop the biscuit dough on top in 5-6 evenly spaced mounds.
Step 6: Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 7: Brush with herb butter
Combine ¼ cup melted butter with the Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the biscuits for that iconic flavor finish.
Step 8: Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, beefy base with the crispy, cheesy biscuit topping.
For more on how biscuits are traditionally made, visit this helpful Wikipedia entry on biscuit bread. If you’re new to seasoning, you can also explore garlic powder to understand its role in enhancing umami flavors.
🧀 Texture and flavor expectations
The Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is a study in contrasts. The bottom layer is rich, creamy, and savory—full of umami from the beef, mushrooms, and cheese. The top biscuit layer is crisp on the outside, soft and flaky on the inside, with a garlicky, buttery finish.
When served hot, each bite combines tender ground beef with the cheesy tang of cheddar and the soft crunch of a freshly baked biscuit. For more about cheddar cheese varieties and flavor profiles, check out Cheddar cheese on Wikipedia.
📸 Visual guide: what it should look like
Once baked, your casserole should have:
-
Golden brown biscuits that are slightly puffed
-
A bubbling, cheesy layer peeking out around the edges
-
Herb butter glistening on top
-
No visible pink in the meat
-
A uniform, thick texture in the beef mixture—not runny
For plating inspiration, visit Pinterest boards with weeknight dinner ideas to see how other home chefs present their casseroles beautifully.
🔄 Variations and customizations
Want to make this dish your own? Here are several ways to customize the Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole to suit dietary needs or personal taste:
-
Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives
-
Add veggies: Mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or frozen peas can add nutrients and texture
-
Change the cheese: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist
-
Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to the meat filling
-
Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free biscuit mix and mushroom soup
These changes allow you to adapt the casserole to your family’s preferences without losing the essence of the dish.
🧊 Make-ahead & freezing instructions
This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. Here’s how to prep and store it effectively:
-
Make-ahead: Prepare the meat mixture and biscuit dough separately. Assemble just before baking to keep biscuits fresh.
-
Freezing (before baking): Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
-
Freezing (after baking): Let cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Always label with the date for best quality and safety.
🧺 How to store leftovers
Leftovers are often even better the next day. Here’s how to store them safely:
-
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days
-
Reheat: Microwave in 1-minute intervals or heat in the oven at 350°F until bubbly
-
Avoid sogginess: Reheat in the oven for crisper biscuits
Avoid microwaving directly in plastic and make sure to heat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
🥗 What to serve with Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole
This dish is hearty on its own, but here are some great sides to round out the meal:
-
Side salad: A crisp garden salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness
-
Steamed or roasted vegetables: Green beans, carrots, or broccoli are light yet satisfying
-
Fresh fruit: A citrusy fruit salad can cut through the casserole’s heaviness
-
Iced tea or sparkling water: Refreshing drinks to complement the flavors
Keep sides light to let the casserole shine as the star of the meal.
🧮 Nutrition information & dietary considerations
Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings total):
-
Calories: ~620
-
Protein: 28g
-
Carbohydrates: 35g
-
Fat: 42g
-
Fiber: 2g
-
Sugar: 4g
-
Sodium: ~980mg
Dietary notes:
-
To make it gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free biscuit mix and cream soup.
-
To make it lactose-free, substitute with lactose-free cheese and sour cream alternatives.
-
Contains no pork or alcohol—we use turkey bacon or no bacon at all.
❓ FAQs – people also ask
What is Cheddar Bay flavor?
It’s a savory blend of garlic, butter, and herbs, made famous by Red Lobster’s biscuits.
Can you use homemade biscuit dough instead?
Yes! Homemade drop biscuit dough works well if seasoned similarly.
Can I make this casserole without cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with homemade cream sauces or use cream of chicken soup.
How do I prevent soggy biscuits on top of a casserole?
Ensure the biscuit dough isn’t too wet and bake uncovered for a crisp top.
How long does hamburger casserole last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this in a crockpot or slow cooker?
Not recommended for the biscuit topping, but the beef filling can be prepped in a slow cooker.
🏁 Final thoughts & serving suggestions
The Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is everything you want in a one-dish dinner—cheesy, hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Its versatility makes it perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or taking to potlucks. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color before serving.
Don’t forget to experiment and make it your own! Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, you can explore dozens of tasty twists using your own pantry staples or seasonal ingredients.
PrintCheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole
Cheddar Bay Hamburger Casserole is a cozy, family-style dinner that brings together the bold, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and fluffy Cheddar Bay biscuits. It’s easy to make, packed with comforting textures, and topped with a buttery garlic herb glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)
½ yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Biscuit Topping:
1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (e.g., Red Lobster brand)
1 cup water
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Herb Butter:
¼ cup melted butter
Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend (included in biscuit mix or homemade*)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Prepare the Biscuit Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine:
-
1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix
-
1 cup water
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Mix just until combined. Set aside to let the dough hydrate.
3. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
-
Cook 2 lbs ground beef with ½ diced onion until browned and no pink remains.
-
Drain excess fat.
4. Season and Combine
To the cooked beef mixture, add:
-
1 tsp onion powder
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
Salt & pepper to taste
Then stir in:
-
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
-
½ cup sour cream
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Mix well until creamy and uniform.
5. Assemble the Casserole
-
Pour the beef mixture into the greased casserole dish.
-
Drop 5–6 large spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the top.
6. Bake
-
Bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes, or until biscuits are fully cooked and golden brown on top.
7. Prepare Herb Butter
While the casserole bakes, melt:
-
¼ cup butter
Stir in: -
Cheddar Bay Garlic Herb Blend
8. Finish and Serve
-
When the casserole is done baking, immediately brush the biscuit tops with the garlic herb butter.
-
Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
Notes
-
Meat Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
-
Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mix for extra nutrients.
-
Soup Substitute: Use homemade cream of mushroom soup or swap with cream of chicken.
-
Biscuit Tips: Do not overmix dough to keep biscuits fluffy.
-
Make Ahead: Prepare beef mixture and biscuit dough separately, refrigerate, and assemble just before baking.