Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious meal that brings comfort to the table, then this ground beef casserole recipe is for you! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're hosting guests, this dish is easy to prepare, customizable, and loaded with rich flavors. With a blend of savory beef, melty cheese, and your choice of vegetables, it’s a guaranteed hit for everyone at the table. Read on to discover how to make this satisfying recipe and why it’ll quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive in!

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

Ground beef casserole is a simple, yet hearty baked dish that combines ground beef with various ingredients like pasta or potatoes, vegetables, seasonings, and cheese. The ingredients are layered or mixed in a casserole dish and baked until they’re golden and bubbly. This recipe can easily be tailored to fit your family's preferences, making it one of the most versatile dishes out there.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole

To make the perfect ground beef casserole, you'll need a combination of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef – You can opt for lean or regular ground beef, depending on your preference. Lean beef will produce less grease, but regular beef will be juicier.
• 1 onion, chopped – Adds a rich, sweet flavor and complements the ground beef perfectly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the depth of the overall flavor.
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor to balance out the richness of the beef.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Gives the casserole its saucy consistency.
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini) – A classic choice for casseroles, but you can also use rice or potatoes.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans) – Adds color and nutrition to the dish.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping that pulls everything together.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds an aromatic touch to the casserole.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Enhances and balances the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic.

Additional Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole

Here are some optional ingredients you can add to give your casserole a unique twist:

• ½ cup sour cream – Adds creaminess to the casserole for an extra layer of richness.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro – Sprinkled on top for garnish and a burst of freshness.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne pepper – For a spicy kick.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Add earthiness and texture to the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground beef casseroles are incredibly flexible, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have or prefer. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach in place of meat.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, or swap the pasta with rice or quinoa.
• Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the sour cream, or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Different cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of different cheeses for added complexity.
• Seasoning tweaks: If you prefer a Mexican-inspired casserole, substitute Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the ultimate ground beef casserole:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Mix with pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and frozen vegetables. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
7. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve hot.

How to Cook Ground Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s ready once your casserole is assembled.
2. Cook Pasta or Base: Boil your pasta or other base (like rice or potatoes) while you work on the beef mixture. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Beef Mixture: Sauté beef, onions, and garlic, then add tomatoes, sauce, and seasoning. This is where the casserole’s flavor foundation is built.
4. Combine with Veggies: Stir in frozen vegetables. They’ll cook perfectly while the casserole bakes.
5. Layer and Top: Transfer everything to a casserole dish and top with cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the oven until the cheese is golden and the dish is warmed through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not draining excess grease: If you’re using regular ground beef, don’t forget to drain the grease after browning. Too much grease can make your casserole oily.
• Overcooking pasta: Cook pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy during baking.
• Forgetting to season: Ground beef casseroles need a good amount of seasoning to really shine. Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, or Italian herbs!
• Adding too many veggies: While vegetables are healthy, adding too many can make the casserole watery. Stick to the suggested amount or be mindful of moisture-rich vegetables like zucchini.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, even with a casual dish like a ground beef casserole. A well-presented casserole can elevate the meal experience. Here are some tips:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts the richness of the dish.
• Serve in the baking dish: Ground beef casseroles look great when served directly from the oven in the casserole dish. Just make sure the dish is clean and wipe the edges before serving.
• Individual portions: For a more polished look, cut the casserole into individual squares and serve them neatly on plates.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is a filling dish on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Green salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: A warm, crusty slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans are healthy, complementary side dishes.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

• Layered look: When you cut into the casserole, make sure the layers of pasta, beef, and vegetables are clearly visible for a rustic, inviting presentation.
• Cheese topping: Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top halfway through baking for a beautifully browned and cheesy crust.
• Family-style serving: Bring the whole casserole dish to the table and let everyone help themselves. It’s casual, but homey.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents, which can affect the melt. For the best cheesy topping, grate your cheese fresh.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and then bake when ready. Perfect for meal prepping!
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Make a double batch and freeze one for later. Just cover it tightly with aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze ground beef casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Make sure it’s fully cooled before freezing. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q: Can I use a different kind of meat?
A: Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be substituted for ground beef.

Q: What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
A: Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of cheeses can also work well.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or the oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out, and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Ground beef casserole is an easy-to-make, family-friendly dish that brings together the best of comfort food in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a dish for guests, this recipe will never fail to impress. With endless variations and the option to make it ahead, it’s a versatile meal that deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Give it a try today, and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors with your loved ones!

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