Ground Beef Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This comforting ground beef casserole is a family favorite, packed with flavor and easy to make.
This ground beef casserole is not just a meal; it's a way to bring family and friends together. With layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Comforting flavors that everyone will enjoy
A Comforting Classic
Ground beef casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It's a dish that not only warms the heart but also fills the belly. This recipe combines savory ground beef with vegetables and creamy soup, topped with a layer of melted cheddar cheese, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the cheese for something different. It's a fantastic way to use up leftovers and create a wholesome meal with minimal effort. Plus, it can be prepared in advance and simply baked when you're ready to serve, making it perfect for busy families.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. You likely already have many of them in your pantry. Ground beef, onions, garlic, and canned tomatoes form a delicious base, while cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy texture that binds everything together. This recipe is a reminder that you don't need fancy ingredients to create a flavorful meal.
Using frozen mixed vegetables not only adds color and nutrition but also saves time on prep. You can mix and match different veggies based on what you have on hand, from peas and carrots to corn and green beans. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that suits your family's preferences while keeping it healthy.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This ground beef casserole is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. This makes it a lifesaver for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Just bake it until it's hot and bubbly, and you'll have a delicious homemade dinner ready in no time.
Additionally, leftovers store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner the next day. This ensures that nothing goes to waste, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish over multiple meals. It's a practical solution for families looking to save time and reduce food waste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, cooked pasta, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Tips for Success
To enhance the flavor of your ground beef casserole, consider browning the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step will elevate the overall taste of the dish. You can also experiment with adding spices like paprika or cumin for a little extra kick.
If you prefer a crispy topping, try mixing breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter and sprinkling them over the cheese before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your ground beef casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. A fresh green salad adds a light and refreshing touch, while bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
For a complete experience, consider pairing this dish with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea. The rich flavors of the casserole can be nicely complemented by a bold red, while a cold drink can help balance the savory elements of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. For the best results, cover the casserole with foil while reheating to prevent it from drying out.
You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just prepare the dish as directed but skip the baking step. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed. This way, you can have a homemade meal ready whenever you need it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
→ What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad or some garlic bread make excellent sides for this dish.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
Ground Beef Casserole
This comforting ground beef casserole is a family favorite, packed with flavor and easy to make.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ground Beef Casserole Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, cooked pasta, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g