This ground beef and milk casserole is a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy textures, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that uses simple ingredients but delivers a comforting and satisfying meal. Let’s get started with this step-by-step guide to creating a casserole that will surprise and please your entire family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 grams) of ground beef
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) of whole milk
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10-12 round crackers or saltine crackers
- Optional: 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to cook the casserole evenly.
- Arrange Crackers: Take a large baking dish and arrange the round crackers or saltine crackers in a single layer at the bottom. These crackers will form a crispy base for your casserole, adding a delightful texture.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. The oil helps in browning the beef and adds a subtle flavor.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Add Ground Beef: Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Ensure that the beef is cooked through and no pink remains.
- Season: Once the beef is browned, season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir to combine all the flavors thoroughly.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer Beef and Crackers: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the layer of crackers in the baking dish. The juices from the beef will soak into the crackers, creating a flavorful base.
- Add Eggs and Milk: Crack two eggs directly over the ground beef mixture. Pour the whole milk over the eggs and beef, ensuring it covers the mixture evenly. The eggs and milk mixture will set during baking, binding the ingredients together and creating a creamy texture.
- Optional Cheese: If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the beef mixture before adding the milk. Cheese will add a delightful gooeyness and extra flavor to the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is slightly golden brown. The casserole should be firm and not jiggly when done.
- Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ground beef and milk casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese and fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese: Adding 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the beef mixture before pouring in the milk can make the casserole extra cheesy and delicious.
- Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add more nutrition and color to your casserole.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Spices: For a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Nutritional Information
This casserole is a good source of protein and calcium. The use of whole milk adds a creamy richness, while the ground beef provides essential nutrients. For a lighter version, you can substitute the whole milk with a lower-fat option and use lean ground beef.
This ground beef and milk casserole is a delightful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy texture and the savory taste of seasoned ground beef make it a favorite for family dinners. The use of simple ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Happy cooking!
