Ground Beef Casserole Recipes: A Hearty and Delicious Meal
Ground beef casserole is one of the most comforting, budget-friendly, and easy-to-make meals. It is perfect for busy families looking for a hearty dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, a good casserole never disappoints. The combination of flavorful beef, creamy or cheesy layers, and baked goodness makes it a go-to favorite for all ages. In this article, we’ll explore a classic ground beef casserole recipe, its variations, and step-by-step instructions to create a delicious meal.
Recipe Overview
This classic ground beef casserole recipe features seasoned beef layered with pasta or potatoes, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese for the perfect bite. It’s a highly versatile dish that allows you to mix in various vegetables, swap out the type of cheese, or adjust seasonings to fit your preferences.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, you can create a satisfying meal in under an hour. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish that can be frozen and reheated when needed. Whether you prefer a Tex-Mex flair, an Italian-inspired version, or a homestyle comfort casserole, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients Details
Below is a detailed list of ingredients you will need for this classic ground beef casserole recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni) | 2 cups |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz |
| Sour Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Shredded Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) | 1 1/2 cups |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a pot of water and cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set it aside. Cooking the pasta just right is important to avoid it becoming mushy when baked. To prevent sticking, you can toss it with a little olive oil.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become translucent. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Be sure to drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, add the tomato sauce to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. This step adds a creamy and slightly tangy balance to the casserole, making it rich and indulgent. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooked pasta in a large baking dish.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta at the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over it and spread evenly. Repeat with the remaining pasta and beef mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations of Ground Beef Casserole
- Tex-Mex Style – Add taco seasoning to the beef, mix in black beans and corn, and use a combination of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Italian-Inspired – Use marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce, mix in ricotta cheese, and top with parmesan for a lasagna-like flavor.
- Vegetable Loaded – Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and add more texture.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes. Whether you make it ahead of time for meal prep or whip it up for a family dinner, this casserole is bound to be a hit. Try experimenting with different seasonings, cheeses, and ingredients to make it your own. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal!
