Ground beef Casserole is one of those dishes that beautifully merges quick preparation with comfort food satisfaction. Its layers of hearty ingredients create a meal that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor. You can see why this dish has become a beloved staple in many households. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it showcases the versatility of ground beef and incorporates textures and tastes that please a crowd.
Why We Love This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Ground Beef Casserole. First and foremost, it’s incredibly satisfying. The combination of lean ground beef, colorful vegetables, and pasta comes together in a way that is both nourishing and comforting. Each bite bursts with flavor, whether you’re tasting the richness of the beef or the brightness of the peppers.
Additionally, the recipe is quite adaptable. If you have specific dietary needs or just want to play around with available ingredients, this casserole allows for easy substitutions. You can switch up the cheese or even the type of pasta to suit your personal tastes.
Moreover, this recipe is family-friendly. It’s an easy way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters, making dinner time more enjoyable for everyone. Plus, you can prepare it in advance, making your weeknight meals stress-free. The leftovers (if there are any!) heat up wonderfully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Now, let’s explore the ingredients that truly bring this Ground Beef Casserole to life.
Ingredients about Ground Beef Casserole
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% or 93% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 2 10-ounce cans diced tomatoes and green chilis (such as Rotel)
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- 12 ounces whole wheat pasta noodles (such as egg noodles, elbow macaroni, or penne)
- 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided (about 2 cups)
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced, divided
Now that you’re familiar with the ingredients, let’s look at how to make this delicious Ground Beef Casserole.
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole Directions
Begin by setting a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it with nonstick spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
Next, heat a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a wide, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and both red and green bell peppers. Season this mixture with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ground black pepper. Cook everything together until the meat is fully browned and the onions have softened—this usually takes about 8 minutes.
Once your meat and veggies have cooked down, add minced garlic to the skillet. Allow this to cook for about another 30 seconds until the mixture becomes fragrant, enhancing the aroma of your dish. This is when you’ll want to incorporate the canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring them in. Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
In the meantime, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s just below al dente. Remember to reserve 1 1/2 cups of the pasta cooking water before draining the noodles. Once drained, set the pasta aside to cool for a bit.
Next, let’s prepare the creamy sauce. In the same pot you used for the pasta, mix together 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water with the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cornstarch, and the remaining salt. Whisk this mixture until it’s silky and smooth.
Now, it’s time to add flavor! Stir in one-third of the shredded cheese and half of the sliced green onions, then fold in your drained pasta. Give it a good mix to ensure everything is combined well.
Take the noodle mixture and spoon it into your baking dish, creating an even layer at the bottom. Next, carefully layer the beef mixture on top, spreading it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the casserole.
Place the assembled dish into your preheated oven and bake it for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese turns bubbly and slightly brown. If you desire an extra crispy top, consider broiling it for an additional 1 to 2 minutes—just keep a careful eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the casserole with the remaining green onions for a fresh finish. Allow it to stand for about 15 minutes before diving in. This resting period lets the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole
When it comes to serving your Ground Beef Casserole, the options are versatile. The dish is hearty enough to stand alone, making it a comforting main course that is sure to satisfy. However, if you want to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. The crispness of fresh greens works wonderfully alongside the richness of the casserole.
For serving, simply scoop generous portions onto individual plates. A sprinkle of extra green onions on top can add a touch of brightness. Some people enjoy adding a dollop of sour cream for an added layer of creaminess, while others might opt for a side of salsa for a bit of zest.
If you’re hosting a gathering, serve the casserole family-style right from the baking dish. Don’t forget some serving utensils! This dish encourages sharing and interacting, bringing friends and family together around the dinner table.
Expert Tips: Ground Beef Casserole
To elevate your Ground Beef Casserole, consider these expert tips:
Meat Variations: You can swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter alternative.
Pasta Choices: There are numerous pasta varieties you can use. While whole wheat provides added fiber, regular pasta works just as well.
Cheese Options: Try using a mixture of different cheeses, like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Veggie Additions: Want to sneak in more veggies? Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the mix.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prep this casserole a day in advance. Assemble everything but the final bake, cover it with foil, and keep it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge—just add an extra 10 minutes to your baking time.
Freezing Option: This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking, let it cool completely, then cut it into portions and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Implementing these tips will assist you in creating the most delightful Ground Beef Casserole possible!
How to Store Ground Beef Casserole
Proper storage can help to keep your Ground Beef Casserole fresh for days. First, let the leftovers cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the casserole to an airtight container. The casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you wish to store it for a longer time, consider freezing individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. When stored correctly, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored casserole, you can reheat it directly from the fridge or freezer. For refrigerator-stored portions, a quick pop in the microwave works well. For frozen portions, it’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven for an even texture.
Variation of Ground Beef Casserole
This Ground Beef Casserole is highly adaptable, allowing you to play around with various flavors and ingredients. Here are some delicious variations you might want to try:
Mexican-Inspired: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the beef mixture. Top with pepper jack cheese and serve with a side of avocado or salsa.
Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian seasoning, diced bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce, followed by a blend of mozzarella and parmesan on top.
Vegetable-Loaded: For a veggie-heavy version, add chopped broccoli, carrots, and peas to the casserole. You can amp up the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Cheesy Spinach Casserole: Fold fresh or frozen spinach into the creamy sauce, and consider adding ricotta or cottage cheese for an even creamier texture.
No matter how you choose to customize your casserole, its heartiness will remain a comforting favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in the Ground Beef Casserole?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute to suit your dietary preferences.
Can I make Ground Beef Casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
What can I serve with Ground Beef Casserole?
It pairs well with a simple side salad or bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
How do I know when my casserole is done baking?
It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, usually after about 30 minutes in the oven.
Ground Beef Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Pot
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90% or 93% lean
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes with juices (approx. 14.5 oz cans)
- 1 can tomato sauce 8 ounces
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta noodles such as egg noodles, elbow macaroni, or penne
- 1 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 4 oz reduced-fat cream cheese at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided (about 2 cups)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and bell peppers. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and black pepper, cooking until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, letting it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 1/2 cups pasta water before draining.
- In the same pot used for pasta, whisk together 1/2 cup reserved pasta water, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, cornstarch, and remaining salt.
- Stir in one-third of the shredded cheese and half of the green onions, then add the drained pasta and mix well.
- Spoon the pasta mixture into the baking dish, layer the beef mixture on top, and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a crispy top if desired.
- Garnish with remaining green onions before serving. Let cool for 15 minutes.