Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 355 °F (180 °C) and lightly grease a medium baking dish, about 9 by 13 inches.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through and most of the liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in the tomato paste, tomato puree, and Dijon mustard until the beef is evenly coated and the mixture looks thick and glossy.
- Season the beef mixture with sweet paprika, smoked paprika if using, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer over medium low heat for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the diced pickles if using, then remove from the heat.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs until completely smooth. Stir in half of the shredded Cheddar cheese and a small pinch of salt if needed.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing it gently into the corners.
- Pour the cream and egg mixture evenly over the beef, tilting the dish slightly so it seeps into all the gaps.
- Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbling, and the center feels set when gently shaken.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.
Notes
- For a stronger cheeseburger flavor, use sharp Cheddar and include the diced pickles in the beef mixture.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead, chill it, then add the cream and cheese topping just before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead, chill it, then add the cream and cheese topping just before baking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture.
