Looking for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner? This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a perfect go-to meal that you can whip up in no time. It's hearty, flavorful, and customizable with your favorite ingredients. Read on to discover how to prepare this mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love!

What is a Ground Beef Casserole?

A Ground Beef Casserole is a savory, baked dish that combines seasoned ground beef with other ingredients like pasta, rice, vegetables, cheese, and sauces. The ingredients are layered or mixed together and baked to perfection, creating a comforting meal that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
1 cup frozen corn (or mixed vegetables)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about a Ground Beef Casserole is how versatile it can be. You can substitute ingredients based on what you have available or to cater to dietary preferences. Here are some variations:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking to cut down on fat.
Rice Instead of Pasta: If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cooked rice instead of pasta.
Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Different Cheese: Replace cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a new twist.
Low Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice in place of pasta to create a low-carb version of this dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Ground Beef Casserole:

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Break the meat apart with a spatula while cooking. Drain excess fat.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, followed by the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, and frozen corn. If using sour cream, stir it in at this stage for added creaminess.
Layer and Top with Cheese: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

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

To make the cooking process even easier, here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:

Step 1: Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic for flavor.
Step 2: Add the tomatoes, sauce, and seasonings to create a rich, savory base.
Step 3: Cook the pasta until just tender, then mix it with the beef mixture and vegetables.
Step 4: Layer everything in a casserole dish and top with plenty of cheese for that golden, melted finish.
Step 5: Bake until hot and bubbly, ensuring all the flavors meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: Be careful not to overcook your pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Aim for al dente to avoid mushy casserole.
Not Draining the Beef: Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after cooking. Too much grease can make the casserole heavy and unappetizing.
Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer—ground beef, pasta, and sauce—so that every bite is flavorful.
Undercooking the Casserole: Ensure the casserole is baked long enough for the cheese to melt fully and the dish to heat through.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A Ground Beef Casserole is a cozy and hearty meal, but you can elevate the presentation with a few easy touches. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, here are some tips to make your casserole look as good as it tastes:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, basil, or even a little green onion over the top of the casserole just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve with a Side Salad: A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich, cheesy casserole.
Offer Breadsticks or Garlic Bread: Serve the casserole with some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here’s how you can make sure everyone gets a generous, delicious portion:

Family Style: Place the casserole dish in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves. Make sure you have a large serving spoon ready.
Individual Portions: For a more formal presentation, scoop individual portions onto plates and add a garnish of fresh herbs. Pair it with a side salad or vegetable dish.
Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Divide the casserole into meal-sized portions and store them in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer for easy, grab-and-go meals.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

Rustic and Casual: Serve the casserole directly from the dish, allowing the bubbling cheese and hearty filling to take center stage. Add a garnish of herbs and keep it simple.
Individual Ramekins: For a fun twist, you can portion out the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This gives each person their own mini casserole.
Layered Look: When serving, try to scoop the casserole in such a way that you reveal the layers of pasta, beef, veggies, and cheese, creating an appetizing cross-section on the plate.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and pop it in the oven.
Freeze for Later: Ground Beef Casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking to create a crispy topping.
Healthier Option: For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great option for meal prep.

3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes very well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

5. What can I serve with Ground Beef Casserole? Serve it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty garlic bread to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, offering both comfort and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a make-ahead meal, or a dish to feed a group, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a family favorite! So, grab your ingredients and get cooking today!