Delicious Casseroles with Ground Beef: 5 Cozy Recipes

There’s something irresistibly comforting about casseroles with ground beef. Picture a bubbling dish, golden cheese melting on top, and the aroma of savory spices wafting through the kitchen. Each bite is a warm hug that wraps you in cozy flavors, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).

Casseroles have this magical quality of bringing everyone together, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends. I remember one time when I made a massive casserole for my buddy’s game night; little did I know, it would spark an epic food competition. The laughter and friendly banter that filled the room were only rivaled by how quickly that casserole disappeared!

I once made this casserole so delicious that my brother-in-law declared me the “Casserole Queen” of the family reunion—no pressure there!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease but still plenty of flavor.

• Onion: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth; cook until translucent for maximum flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings aromatic goodness; don’t skip it unless you’re trying to ward off vampires.

• Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes enhance moisture; opt for whole canned if you want chunks of tomato joy.

• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar melts beautifully on top, creating that gooey texture we all love.

• Pasta or Rice: Use your favorite pasta shape or leftover rice for added heartiness—everyone loves options!

• Seasoning Blend: Combine Italian seasoning with salt and pepper to elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

• Vegetables (optional): Add bell peppers or spinach for color and extra nutrition—because we’re all adults here.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop the onion and garlic. Preheating your oven now will save time later—set it to 350°F (175°C).

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and sauté onions until they turn translucent. Toss in minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Brown the Beef: Add ground beef into the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no pink remains; this takes about 5-7 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in canned tomatoes along with your seasoning blend. Let everything simmer for about 10 minutes while you daydream about cheesy goodness.

Combine Everything in a Casserole Dish: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta or rice with the beef mixture. If using vegetables, fold them in gently. Transfer this delightful mixture into a greased baking dish.

Topping Time!: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of your casserole masterpiece. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown—this is where patience pays off!

Now you have an incredible casserole that not only fills bellies but also warms hearts!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef in a pan, then layer your ingredients efficiently to ensure even cooking throughout.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat at 350°F until heated through for best texture.

The first time I made casseroles with ground beef, my friends devoured it as if they hadn’t eaten in days! Their compliments still bring a smile to my face.

FAQ

Can I freeze casseroles with ground beef?

Yes, they freeze well; just ensure they’re completely cool before wrapping tightly.

What’s the best way to reheat my casserole?

Reheat at 350°F covered with foil to keep moisture in and prevent drying out.

How long do leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Print

Comforting Ground Beef Casserole

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming delight of this easy ground beef casserole, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Topped with gooey cheddar cheese and packed with savory flavors, each bite offers a cozy hug for your taste buds. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or enjoy it as is for a satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cooked pasta or rice
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup bell peppers or spinach

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and seasoning; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine the beef mixture with cooked pasta or rice and optional vegetables. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.