Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and will have your family asking for seconds? This ground beef casserole recipe is just what you need! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious, this dish combines ground beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese for a filling and flavorful casserole. Keep reading to learn how to make this simple yet scrumptious dinner, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

A ground beef casserole is a baked dish that features ground beef as the main protein, combined with other ingredients such as vegetables, pasta, rice, or potatoes, and topped with cheese or breadcrumbs. It's a one-dish meal that's perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or enjoying as leftovers. Ground beef casseroles are popular because they're versatile, budget-friendly, and easily customizable.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here's what you'll need for a classic ground beef casserole:

• 1 pound of ground beef – The star of the dish, offering rich, savory flavor and protein.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the casserole.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Provides a fragrant, flavorful base.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
• 1 can (8 oz) of tomato sauce – Helps bind the ingredients together and adds depth.
• 2 cups of cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini works best) – Provides the carb base that complements the beef and vegetables.
• 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – Adds color, texture, and nutrition.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The topping that melts into gooey goodness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds aromatic herbs that enhance the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – For an extra crispy topping.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole Variations

If you want to get creative or adapt the recipe to what you have in your pantry, here are some ideas for variations:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap out the beef for a leaner protein.
• Sweet Potatoes or Russet Potatoes – Instead of pasta, use cubed potatoes for a different texture.
• Rice – Use cooked rice in place of pasta for a different twist.
• Different Cheeses – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend instead of cheddar.
• Additional Vegetables – Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers work well in this dish.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – Replace tomato sauce for a creamier version.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about casseroles is their flexibility. You can easily swap ingredients based on your dietary needs or what’s in your fridge. Here are some substitution ideas:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta or replace pasta with cooked quinoa or rice. Also, make sure any breadcrumbs or sauces you use are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.
• Dairy-Free Version: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Coconut milk or a dairy-free cream can be used in place of tomato sauce for a creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or lentils, and increase the vegetable content with hearty options like mushrooms, eggplant, or squash.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making ground beef casserole is straightforward and simple. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a foolproof meal that will be a hit every time:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Add tomatoes and sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Combine ingredients: Stir in the cooked pasta and frozen mixed vegetables. Mix everything together in the skillet until well combined.
7. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top with shredded cheese. If you're using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy!

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

Here’s a quick breakdown of the cooking process for a perfect ground beef casserole:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Have your pasta cooked, ground beef browned, and vegetables ready to go.
2. Layer the Flavors: Start by sautéing onion and garlic, then mix in the tomatoes and seasonings.
3. Mix it All Together: Combine pasta, beef, veggies, and sauce into one cohesive mixture.
4. Top it Off: Add cheese (and breadcrumbs, if using) for that irresistible golden crust.
5. Bake Until Perfection: Cook in the oven until the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though ground beef casserole is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few things to avoid:

• Not seasoning the beef: Failing to properly season your ground beef will result in a bland casserole. Always season as you cook.
• Overcooking the pasta: Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Skipping the draining step: Draining the fat from the ground beef is important to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Overloading with liquid: Be cautious with the amount of tomato sauce or diced tomatoes you use. Too much liquid will make the casserole soupy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve your casserole can make it even more appealing! Consider the following tips:

• Serve with a Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Slice and Serve: Let the casserole rest before slicing it into neat portions, just like lasagna.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. For a well-rounded meal, pair it with side dishes like:

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great sides.
• A side salad – Add some crunch and freshness with a Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

• Rustic Casserole Dish: Serve your casserole in the baking dish, allowing the bubbling cheese to steal the show.
• Individual Servings: For a fancier presentation, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins or small dishes for each guest.
• Garnish It: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a beautiful garnish. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top for an extra touch.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: Ground beef casserole is great for meal prep. You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
• Freeze It: This casserole freezes well! Assemble it, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make ground beef casserole in advance?

Yes! You can make the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It also freezes well for future meals.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles can replace ground beef for a different flavor or dietary preference.

Can I freeze leftover ground beef casserole?

Absolutely. Portion out leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

How do I prevent my casserole from becoming too watery?

Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well, and don't add too much sauce. Also, allow the casserole to rest before serving, so it sets properly.

Conclusion

This ground beef casserole recipe is the perfect family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare, customizable, and comforting. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or making a large batch for meal prep, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Be sure to try out different variations, experiment with new ingredients, and follow the tips provided to make the best casserole possible. Give this recipe a try and let it become a staple in your home!

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