Ground Beef Casserole: 7 Steps to Delicious Success

Name: Ground Beef Casserole: 7 Steps to Delicious Success
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups cooked pasta; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: ground beef casserole. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, making it perfect for family dinners or even a cozy night in. This casserole is not only hearty and satisfying, but it’s also super easy to whip up, which is a huge win in my book! All you need are a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, and you’ll have a delicious, bubbling dish that everyone will love. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it on repeat, and your family will be begging for seconds! So, let’s get started on this delightful journey to casserole heaven!

ground beef casserole - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this fabulous ground beef casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef: Aim for lean ground beef to keep things a bit healthier, but don’t stress if you grab regular—just drain off any excess fat after browning.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Look for fire-roasted tomatoes if you want an extra burst of flavor! They add a nice smokiness.
2 cups cooked pasta: Any pasta shape you love will work perfectly! I’m partial to elbow macaroni, but feel free to get creative!
1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar is my go-to, but mozzarella or a blend of your favorites will do the trick too. Just make sure it’s shredded for that melty goodness!
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works well here; it adds a nice sweetness when cooked.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Choose any color you like—red, green, or yellow will all add a lovely crunch and flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic! It brings a wonderful aroma and taste to the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This is where the magic happens! It gives your casserole that comforting Italian flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: These are your best friends! Always season to your preference for the best flavor.

So there you have it! A simple list, right? Make sure to pick fresh ingredients, especially the veggies, for the best results. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also make your casserole look vibrant and inviting! Now, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Ground Beef Casserole

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious ground beef casserole! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your casserole cook evenly and ensures that cheese gets all bubbly and delightful. So, don’t skip this step!

Brown the Ground Beef

Next, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the pound of ground beef and let it sizzle away! Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s browned all over and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if you’re using regular ground beef—nobody wants a greasy casserole!

Add Vegetables

Now, toss in your chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir them in and let them cook for about 5 minutes, just until the veggies are soft and fragrant. You’ll love the smell wafting through your kitchen!

Combine Ingredients

Time to bring it all together! Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so that all those amazing flavors get to know each other. Trust me, even mixing is key to a delicious casserole!

Transfer and Top

Carefully transfer your mixture into a baking dish. It can be a bit heavy, so watch your fingers! Once it’s all in there, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. You can never have too much cheese, right?

Bake the Casserole

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and maybe a little golden on top. Oh, the aroma will be heavenly!

Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. This little wait makes it easier to serve. When you’re ready, dish it out and enjoy! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends, let’s talk about how to make this ground beef casserole the best it can be! Here are some handy tips to keep in mind that will help you avoid common slip-ups and ensure your dish turns out fantastically every time.

Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the ground beef. If you rush it, you might end up with uneven cooking. Trust me, a nice browning adds depth to the flavor!
Season as You Go: It’s super important to taste as you cook! Add salt and pepper gradually, and keep adjusting until it’s perfect for your palate.
Use Leftover Pasta: If you have any leftover pasta from previous meals, use that! It’ll save you time and reduce waste. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente, so it holds up in the casserole.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your casserole while it bakes. If you overbake it, the cheese can become tough instead of melty and gooey. You want that perfect bubbly top!
Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in more vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach can add a nice twist to the flavor and boost the nutrition. Just chop them small so they blend in well.
Let it Rest: I know waiting is hard, but letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set up, making it easier to serve. Plus, it’ll be hot, hot, hot!
Experiment with Cheese: While I love cheddar, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra punch of flavor. Cheese lovers unite!

With these tips in your back pocket, I just know your ground beef casserole will be a hit! Cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Please note that the nutritional information provided for this ground beef casserole is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors such as the type of ground beef, cheese, and any additional vegetables or seasonings can affect the overall nutrition. For the most accurate information, always refer to the packaging of your ingredients and adjust according to your personal dietary needs. Enjoy your meal knowing it’s made with love and care!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if that’s your jam. Just keep in mind that each type of meat has its own flavor profile. For example, turkey is a bit leaner and can be milder in taste, so you might want to amp up the seasonings a bit. Ground pork is richer and will add a different dimension to your casserole. Just make sure to cook whatever meat you choose thoroughly, and you’re good to go!

What other vegetables can I add?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can really get creative with your veggie additions. Think about adding chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn for a sweet bite. Spinach or kale can sneak in some greens without overpowering the dish. Just chop them into small pieces so they blend in nicely. And remember, the more colorful your casserole, the more inviting it looks on the table!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let your casserole cool down for a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pop it in the microwave or oven to reheat. If you’re reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Easy-peasy!

Can I freeze the casserole?

You bet! Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Just make sure to let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat it in the oven until it’s heated through. You might want to add a little extra cheese on top before baking for that melty goodness!

What can I serve with this casserole?

This ground beef casserole is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, I suggest pairing it with a simple side salad or some roasted veggies for a pop of color. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce. And if you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of balsamic glaze over the salad adds a delightful touch. Yum!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can have this casserole ready in no time!
Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love, making it perfect for family dinners.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes. Make it your own!
Hearty and Satisfying: This casserole is a comforting meal that will fill you up and warm your soul.
Great for Leftovers: It stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it the next day—if there are any leftovers!
One-Pan Wonder: It all comes together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Less mess, more fun!

Equipment Needed

To whip up this delicious ground beef casserole, you won’t need any fancy gadgets—just some trusty kitchen tools! Here’s a list of the essentials you’ll want to have on hand:

Large Skillet: A sturdy skillet is key for browning the ground beef and sautéing the veggies. A non-stick option makes cleanup super easy!
Baking Dish: You’ll need a good-sized baking dish to hold all those yummy layers. A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this casserole!
Spatula: Grab a spatula for breaking up the beef while it cooks and for mixing in all your ingredients. A wooden or silicone spatula is a great choice.
Cutting Board: A solid cutting board is essential for chopping your onions, bell pepper, and garlic. It makes prep work a breeze!
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice through your veggies quickly and safely. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are must-haves for measuring out your ingredients accurately—especially the cheese and spices!
Oven Mitts: Don’t forget a good pair of oven mitts! You’ll need them for safely handling your hot baking dish once your casserole is ready.

With these simple tools, you’ll be all set to create a wonderful ground beef casserole that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s talk about the ingredients for this ground beef casserole and some easy substitutions you can make if you need to—or just want to get a little creative!

Ground Beef: If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great! Just remember that turkey can be a bit drier, so you might want to add a splash of broth to keep it moist. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with your favorite spices.
Diced Tomatoes: You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand—just chop them up and add a little extra seasoning. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using diced tomatoes with green chilies. It adds a nice zing!
Pasta: Any pasta shape will do! If you want to go gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free pasta. Quinoa or even cauliflower rice can be a fantastic low-carb alternative if you’re watching your carbs.
Shredded Cheese: While I love cheddar, feel free to swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant. Just make sure it melts well for that gooey topping!
Vegetables: The onion and bell pepper add a lovely flavor base, but you can mix in any veggies you have on hand. Think zucchini, carrots, or even frozen mixed veggies! Just adjust the cooking time slightly if you use frozen, as they may need a little longer to heat through.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, no worries! A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme will give you a similar flavor. You can even throw in some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
Salt and Pepper: Always taste and adjust! If you’re on a low-sodium diet, consider using herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without adding too much salt.

With these substitutions and notes, you can easily tailor this ground beef casserole to fit your dietary needs or simply to use up what you have at home! Cooking should be fun and flexible, so don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.