A rich and satisfying baked dish that layers seasoned beef, savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, and buttery garlic bread for a cheeseburger-inspired comfort meal.
1½ pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6–8 slices of French or Italian bread
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 garlic cloves, minced (for butter)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: cooked bacon, jalapeños, mushrooms
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Drain fat.
Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
Stir in tomato paste. Add crushed tomatoes and Worcestershire. Simmer 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread beef mixture in baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
Mix melted butter with garlic and parsley. Brush onto bread slices.
Arrange bread over casserole.
Bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is bubbling and bread is crisp. Broil briefly if needed.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.