Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Sometimes you just need a quick, hearty meal that can feed the whole family, and this Simple Ground Beef Casserole is just the dish! It’s easy to throw together with minimal prep and makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Packed with seasoned ground beef, pasta, and melted cheese, this comforting casserole will please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

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What is Ground Beef Casserole?

A Ground Beef Casserole is a one-pan meal made by layering seasoned ground beef, pasta (or another starch), a flavorful sauce, and cheese, all baked until bubbly and golden. It’s like a quick version of lasagna, shepherd’s pie, or a baked pasta dish, but with fewer ingredients and less effort. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, making it a go-to for busy nights or when you’re looking to meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little kick)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups uncooked pasta (like penne, macaroni, or rotini)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Additional Ingredients for More Flavor

To make the casserole even more flavorful, consider these optional ingredients:

• ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicier kick)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, or carrots)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for added richness)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit your tastes or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few substitution ideas:

• Ground Beef: You can swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter or different flavor.
• Pasta: Any type of short pasta works, so use whatever you have on hand (penne, macaroni, rigatoni, or rotini). For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
• Cheese: Mix things up by using different types of cheese—try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoky gouda.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or bulk it up with additional veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this easy Ground Beef Casserole? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until just al dente (it will continue cooking in the oven). Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Once the ground beef is cooked, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes so the flavors can meld together. If you want a creamier casserole, stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese at this point.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In your prepared baking dish, layer the cooked pasta evenly. Pour the beef mixture over the top of the pasta and spread it out evenly. If you’re adding vegetables, you can mix them into the beef mixture before layering it.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the beef and pasta layers.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a light golden crust.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to scoop out portions. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy!

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

• Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish.
• Step 2: Cook the pasta until al dente and drain.
• Step 3: Brown ground beef with onion and garlic, then drain excess fat.
• Step 4: Stir in tomatoes, sauce, and seasonings, and let it simmer.
• Step 5: Layer pasta in the dish, add the beef mixture, and top with cheese.
• Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Step 7: Let the casserole rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. It will continue to cook while baking, and you don’t want it to get mushy.
2. Not draining the beef fat: Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Undersalting the beef mixture: Taste your beef mixture before layering it into the casserole to make sure it’s seasoned properly. The tomatoes can sometimes mute the flavor, so you may need a bit more salt than expected.
4. Skipping the resting time: Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This simple Ground Beef Casserole is perfect for serving as a cozy weeknight dinner. Here are a few ideas to enhance its presentation:

• Garnish with herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color.
• Serve with a side salad: A crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
• Offer toppings: Let everyone customize their servings with optional toppings like sour cream, sliced avocado, or hot sauce.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

To serve, use a spatula to scoop out generous portions, ensuring each slice includes a good mix of beef, pasta, and melted cheese. This casserole pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

For an appealing presentation, consider these ideas:

• Rustic Serving: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a comforting, family-style meal.
• Colorful Toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs, or top with sliced cherry tomatoes or avocado for added color and flavor.
• Cheese Pull Moment: Slice into the casserole while it’s still hot to reveal the gooey, melted cheese for that irresistible cheese-pull moment.

Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish (before baking), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can add frozen or fresh vegetables like peas, corn, spinach, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitution for a lighter option. You can also use ground chicken or pork if you prefer.

Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this casserole. Just make sure to cook it according to package instructions to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping. With tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, and enjoy a hearty, filling meal that’s always a hit!

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