Ground Beef Casserole
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners.
This ground beef casserole is a family favorite that combines all the comfort of a traditional casserole with the ease of preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying hunger
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
- A one-dish meal that simplifies dinner cleanup
A Comforting Family Favorite
Ground beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any family gathering. This dish is not just delicious; it's also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients to cater to your family's preferences or to use up whatever you have on hand. From adding more vegetables to incorporating different types of cheese, this casserole can adapt to become your family's unique signature dish.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to ensure everyone has a warm meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-dish nature of the recipe means that cleanup is a breeze!
Nutritional Benefits
This ground beef casserole not only satisfies hunger but also packs a nutritional punch. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth, making this dish a great option for active families. Additionally, incorporating vegetables adds vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded meal that supports overall health.
The use of whole-grain pasta can elevate this dish even further. Whole grains are known for their fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. By choosing healthier ingredient options, you can transform this comforting casserole into a nutritious meal that everyone will love.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Ground beef casserole is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This makes it a practical option for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy home-cooked meals without the daily cooking hassle. Simply reheat portions as needed, and you have a satisfying meal ready to go.
Additionally, leftovers can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner the next day, providing a quick and convenient option for those hectic days. With its delightful flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole will be a dish that you look forward to enjoying more than once.
Ingredients
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.
Steps to Prepare
Preheat and Cook Beef
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked.
Combine Ingredients
Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
Mix with Pasta
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Bake the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty ground beef casserole!
Serve hot with a side salad or bread for a complete meal.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your ground beef casserole by experimenting with different ingredients. You could swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, consider adding ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor to the dish.
For a spicy kick, you might add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you're a fan of different cuisines, try incorporating taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist or BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can lead to a new family favorite!
Serving Suggestions
When serving your ground beef casserole, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole, enhancing the overall dining experience.
You can also serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and a pop of color. These simple touches can elevate your dish and impress your family or guests, making every meal feel special.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftover ground beef casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, ensure that it's heated thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in the oven or microwave. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the casserole, so you can enjoy the deliciousness just as much as when it was freshly baked.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
→ What type of cheese is best for this casserole?
Cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting properties, but feel free to use any cheese you enjoy.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef with rich flavors, perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Sophia Lane
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty ground beef casserole!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g