Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor? This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect solution! Made with a base of seasoned ground beef, pasta or rice, and a cheesy topping, this casserole is a great go-to meal for busy weeknights. It’s budget-friendly, versatile, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Read on for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making this delicious ground beef casserole.

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

Ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food that typically features layers of ground beef, vegetables, starch (like pasta, rice, or potatoes), and a cheesy or creamy sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbly. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it an excellent option for using up pantry staples or leftovers.

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

To make this simple yet delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• Ground Beef: 1 lb (lean ground beef works best, or use ground turkey for a lighter option)
• Pasta or Rice: 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni, penne, or white/brown rice (you can also use egg noodles)
• Onion: 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or use a mix of oregano and basil)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• Green Bell Pepper: 1 medium bell pepper, diced for a bit of crunch and sweetness
• Frozen Corn: 1 cup (or peas) for added texture
• Chili Powder: ½ teaspoon for a bit of heat
• Paprika: ½ teaspoon for extra depth of flavor
• Sour Cream: ½ cup for a creamy, tangy layer

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly adaptable. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice, and check that your tomato sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Different Cheeses: You can use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for creating this easy ground beef casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray or olive oil.

2. Cook the Pasta or Rice

If you're using pasta or rice as your base, cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta (or rice) and set it aside.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks (about 6–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you're adding bell peppers, corn, or chili powder, stir them in at this point. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Combine with Pasta or Rice

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta (or rice) with the ground beef mixture. Stir until everything is well-mixed.

6. Layer in the Casserole Dish

Spread the beef and pasta mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. If using, spread a layer of sour cream over the top for extra creaminess.

7. Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice) generously over the top of the casserole.

8. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

9. Let It Rest

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Scoop out generous portions and serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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

Here’s a quick summary of the essential steps to make this easy ground beef casserole:

1. Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a casserole dish.
2. Cook the Base: Cook pasta or rice until al dente.
3. Brown the Beef: Sauté onions and garlic, cook the ground beef, and season with tomatoes, spices, and optional veggies.
4. Mix: Combine the cooked pasta or rice with the beef mixture.
5. Layer: Spread in the casserole dish, top with cheese.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
7. Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
• Not Draining the Beef: Draining the fat from the ground beef prevents the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Skipping Seasoning: Ground beef can be bland without proper seasoning. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This simple ground beef casserole is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few serving suggestions.

How to Serve Simple Ground Beef Casserole

• Portioning: Use a spatula to serve large squares or spoon it into bowls for a more rustic presentation.
• Side Dishes: Serve alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Offer toppings like sour cream, chopped parsley, or sliced green onions for a fresh pop of flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives over the top for a pop of color.
• Cheese Crust: Broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes to get a golden, crispy cheese crust.
• Serve in Individual Dishes: For a more formal presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and add 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or even ground chicken works well in this recipe as a lighter alternative to beef.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Can I freeze ground beef casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, hearty, and customizable. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal to feed a crowd, or something that freezes well for later, this casserole checks all the boxes. With its cheesy topping and flavorful layers of beef and pasta or rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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