Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

When you're craving a comforting, easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight, nothing hits the spot quite like a simple ground beef casserole. Not only is it a family favorite, but it also uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This hearty meal can be customized with a variety of substitutions and variations, making it a versatile dish you'll turn to time and time again. If you're looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe, this ground beef casserole is the perfect choice. Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to make your meal flawless!

What is a Ground Beef Casserole?

A ground beef casserole is a baked dish that combines seasoned ground beef with a variety of other ingredients—often pasta, vegetables, cheese, and a creamy or tomato-based sauce—into one delicious, oven-baked meal. It's a one-pan wonder that's easy to assemble, making it perfect for meal prep or serving a large family. Ground beef casseroles are highly customizable, so you can modify the recipe based on your family's preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here's a list of ingredients you'll need for this simple ground beef casserole recipe. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your taste or dietary restrictions:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, macaroni, or egg noodles)
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients List for Variations of Ground Beef Casserole

Want to shake things up a bit? Below are some variation ideas for this ground beef casserole recipe, allowing you to cater to different tastes or dietary needs:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Use low-fat cheese and light sour cream to cut down on calories.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a healthier twist.
• Substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or even tomato soup for a different flavor.
• Try different pasta varieties like whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you're avoiding gluten.
• Spice it up by adding jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best aspects of a ground beef casserole is its adaptability. Don't have one of the ingredients? No problem! There are plenty of substitutions you can make without compromising the dish.

• Meat Substitutes: Ground turkey or chicken works well if you’re looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Cheese Options: Cheddar is the go-to cheese for this recipe, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
• Pasta Choices: This recipe calls for penne, macaroni, or egg noodles, but feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand—rotini, rigatoni, or even farfalle will do the trick.
• Sauces: While the recipe uses a tomato-based sauce and cream of mushroom soup, feel free to try alfredo sauce or marinara for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Aside from peas, you can throw in corn, carrots, or green beans to boost the nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get started? Follow these easy steps for a perfectly baked, delicious ground beef casserole.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta: Boil your pasta of choice in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes). Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Season the meat: Add salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
5. Add liquids: Stir in the diced tomatoes (including juice) and the cream of mushroom soup. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and sour cream. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Assemble the casserole: Pour half of the pasta and meat mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheese over the top, then add the rest of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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

Cooking a ground beef casserole is straightforward, but attention to detail will ensure the best results. Here’s a concise breakdown of the key steps:

• Cooking the Pasta: Always cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Browning the Meat: Ensure the ground beef is fully cooked and browned evenly. This enhances the flavor and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
• Layering the Casserole: Layering half of the pasta mixture before adding cheese ensures the casserole is cheesy throughout, not just on top.
• Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole while it's in the oven. You want the cheese to melt and form a golden crust without overcooking it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common pitfalls you’ll want to avoid:

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Pasta will continue to cook as the casserole bakes, so make sure it’s slightly underdone before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the ground beef! A bland beef mixture will lead to a bland casserole.
3. Using Too Much Liquid: Be cautious with the liquid from the diced tomatoes or cream soup. Too much moisture can make your casserole soggy.
4. Cheese Overload: While cheese is essential for a delicious casserole, too much can overpower the dish and make it too greasy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground beef casseroles may be a humble dish, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look great on the table. A few thoughtful touches can elevate your meal presentation:

1. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the top of your casserole for a burst of color.
2. Side Dishes: Serve the casserole with a light side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
3. Dish Choice: Use a ceramic or glass baking dish for a rustic presentation, straight from oven to table.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can plate individual portions or bring the whole casserole dish to the table and let everyone serve themselves. For a casual family dinner, a large spoon works best, ensuring everyone gets a hearty helping of beef, pasta, and melted cheese in each serving.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

• Layering the Toppings: Add a final sprinkling of shredded cheese and broil for the last minute to create a crispy cheese crust.
• Plating: Serve each portion on a white plate, which will contrast nicely with the colors of the casserole and garnish.
• Add a Drizzle: For a gourmet touch, drizzle a little bit of sour cream mixed with herbs or a balsamic glaze on top before serving.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: You can prepare this casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as instructed.
• Add More Flavor: For extra flavor, consider adding Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture while it cooks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta tends to cook faster than regular pasta.

2. Can I freeze this ground beef casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes very well. Just make sure to assemble the dish before freezing and bake it fresh after thawing.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream, cheese, and cream soup with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or vegan cheese.

Conclusion

This simple ground beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It's easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for a variety of dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it!

Print