Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Looking for a simple yet hearty meal that will satisfy the whole family? This ground beef casserole recipe is the perfect choice! Packed with savory ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and tender pasta, it's a dish that combines convenience with mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to make this delicious casserole from start to finish!

What is a Ground Beef Casserole?

A ground beef casserole is a classic, comforting dish that typically combines ground beef, pasta or rice, a creamy or tomato-based sauce, and a variety of vegetables and cheeses. The ingredients are mixed together and baked to perfection in the oven, resulting in a satisfying, cheesy, and savory meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for many home cooks.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty ground beef casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef is recommended, but you can use a higher fat content if preferred.
• 2 cups pasta – Any short pasta like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne will work perfectly.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and texture to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a rich, savory taste.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and flavor.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Helps bind everything together.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots – You can substitute with other vegetables if desired.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a classic herbaceous flavor to the casserole.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – For a little extra warmth and color.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – This will melt and create a delicious cheesy top.
• ½ cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings for any dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about a ground beef casserole is how customizable it can be. Whether you're out of a certain ingredient or simply want to tweak the recipe to fit your preferences, here are a few substitution and variation ideas:

• Ground meat options: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a lighter or different flavor profile.
• Vegetable choices: Don’t like peas and carrots? Use broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach instead.
• Pasta alternatives: If you prefer a lower-carb option, you can substitute the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Cheese swaps: Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a bit of a kick.
• Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding cooked bacon, black beans, or even a handful of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to gather and prep all your ingredients. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents last-minute scrambles.

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, frozen vegetables, and sour cream. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
6. Layer the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased casserole dish, spread half of the pasta-beef mixture. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. Add the remaining mixture and finish with another cup of cheese.
7. Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
8. Let it rest: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut.

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

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
• Step 2: Boil 2 cups of pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Step 3: Brown 1 lb of ground beef in a skillet, drain off excess fat, and set aside.
• Step 4: Sauté 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in the same skillet. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of tomato sauce, and seasonings.
• Step 5: Combine all the ingredients, including the pasta, beef mixture, vegetables, and sour cream, in a large bowl.
• Step 6: Layer the mixture in the casserole dish, topping with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta: Remember that the pasta will cook further in the oven, so avoid overcooking it on the stovetop. Al dente pasta works best for casseroles.
• Not draining the beef properly: If you leave too much grease in the beef, it can make your casserole greasy. Be sure to drain the excess fat.
• Skipping the rest time: It’s tempting to dive right into the casserole when it’s fresh out of the oven, but letting it rest for 5-10 minutes will help the flavors meld and make it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving your ground beef casserole, a little thought can elevate the presentation and make the meal even more enjoyable.

• Portion control: Use a sharp knife to cut the casserole into neat, even squares for easy serving.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Serving dish: Consider serving directly from the baking dish to maintain its rustic, homey feel, or transfer to individual plates for a more elegant presentation.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it a complete dinner:

• Side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Garlic bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Serve with a few slices of toasted garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Steamed vegetables: Add a light side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or any seasonal vegetable for added nutrition.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

• Colorful toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or even extra cheese before serving.
• Layered serving: Consider serving individual portions in small ramekins for a more refined look.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.
• Freezing instructions: This dish freezes well! Make an extra batch, freeze it before baking, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw and bake as instructed.
• Extra cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add an extra layer of cheese on top for even more gooey goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the dish, but all work well in casseroles.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure to cover the casserole with foil while baking to prevent it from drying out. You can also add a little extra sauce if needed.

Conclusion

This ground beef casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients with savory flavors that everyone will love. With easy-to-follow instructions, the option for substitutions and variations, and tips to make it even better, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole checks all the boxes. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get cooking!

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