Introduction
Ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a dish to feed a crowd, this recipe has got you covered. With its hearty combination of ground beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings, it’s a one-pot wonder that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this ground beef casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Another reason to love this recipe is its budget-friendly nature. Ground beef is an affordable protein option that can stretch a long way, making it perfect for feeding a large family or for meal prepping. And let’s not forget about the leftovers! This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious ground beef casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding or substituting any vegetables or spices that you prefer. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pro tip: For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your ground beef casserole turns out perfectly:
- Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease in the dish.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
- Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- If you prefer a saucier casserole, you can add more beef broth or a can of tomato sauce.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
Variations and Substitutions
There are endless possibilities for customizing this ground beef casserole. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
If you’re looking to add some extra vegetables, try adding diced zucchini, carrots, or corn to the mix.
For a Mexican twist, swap the diced tomatoes for a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and add some chili powder and cumin to the seasoning mix.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can substitute the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a refreshing drink pairing, try a glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in a preheated oven until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Ground beef casserole is a timeless dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself turning to time and time again. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this casserole is a crowd-pleaser?
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious ground beef casserole. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking!
Ground Beef Casserole
A classic comfort food dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and savory seasonings, baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. This hearty and satisfying ground beef casserole is a versatile one-pot meal that is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Directions
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
