Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner that’s quick, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding the whole family, this Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the answer! Made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melted cheese, this hearty casserole is packed with flavor and comfort. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even serving at a potluck. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this casserole in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and some helpful tips to make it perfect!

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What is Simple Ground Beef Casserole?

Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a classic dish made with ground beef, pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, topped with cheese and baked until bubbly. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that combines ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. This casserole is filling, comforting, and ideal for busy nights when you need to get dinner on the table fast. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add veggies, switch up the cheese, or even make it a little spicy!

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

To make this delicious and easy casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz elbow macaroni (or any short pasta, cooked and drained)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

Substitutions and Variations for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is easily customizable, so you can make it your own! Here are some great options for substitutions and variations:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and use plant-based ground meat or add cooked lentils, black beans, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta to make the casserole gluten-free.
• Add vegetables: You can bulk up the casserole by adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Spicy version: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture.
• Extra cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, you can add more cheese or experiment with different varieties like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this simple and flavorful Ground Beef Casserole:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant.
4. Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Cook the pasta: While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the pasta in a pot of salted water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble the casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is well-coated. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool slightly and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.

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

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then sauté onions and garlic.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook pasta, drain, and combine with the beef mixture.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20 minutes covered, then uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly, then serve with optional fresh herb garnish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ground Beef Casserole turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente (firm to the bite), as it will continue to cook slightly while baking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
2. Not seasoning the beef: Don’t forget to season the beef mixture well with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Ground beef needs a good amount of seasoning to bring out its flavor.
3. Using too much liquid: Be mindful of the amount of liquid in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. If the casserole has too much liquid, it can turn out watery. If needed, drain the diced tomatoes before adding them to the mixture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Even though this is a casual, comforting dish, you can still make it look appetizing with a few simple touches:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Serve with garlic bread: Pair this casserole with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal.
• Add a side salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.

How to Serve Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here are some ideas for serving this hearty casserole:

• Main dish: Serve the casserole as a main course with a side of vegetables like roasted broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad.
• For a potluck: This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to transport and reheats well, making it a great dish for feeding a crowd.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Presentation Ideas for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Make your casserole look extra appetizing with these presentation ideas:

• Serve in a cast iron skillet: For a rustic presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a cast iron skillet.
• Top with extra cheese: Add a little extra cheese on top right before serving to make it look extra cheesy and melty.
• Individual servings: You can also portion the casserole into small ramekins or oven-safe bowls for individual servings—perfect for dinner parties or portion control.

Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure your casserole turns out delicious:

1. Use high-quality ground beef: For the best flavor, use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15). If you’re using fattier beef, be sure to drain the excess fat.
2. Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a larger group or want leftovers, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish or two separate dishes.
3. Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked or baked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! Cheddar works great, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.

Q: How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
A: Definitely! You can add vegetables

like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family. With seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and plenty of melted cheese, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction. It’s versatile and can be customized to your taste with different add-ins or toppings, making it a go-to meal for busy nights. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love!

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