If you're looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that can satisfy the entire family, look no further! This Simple Ground Beef Casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for making ahead to enjoy later. Packed with savory flavors and a creamy texture, it's a dish that will soon become a favorite at your dinner table. Read on to discover everything you need to know about creating this classic comfort food, from the ingredients you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, serving tips, and more!

What is a Ground Beef Casserole?

A ground beef casserole is a layered dish that's typically made with seasoned ground beef, pasta or rice, a variety of vegetables, cheese, and a creamy or tomato-based sauce. This comforting dish is baked to perfection until the flavors meld together and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It's easy to customize and makes for great leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

To make a delicious ground beef casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the dish.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the beef.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the depth of flavor.
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes for ease and flavor.
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Provides a rich, tangy base for the casserole.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn): Adds texture and nutrition.
2 cups uncooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni or rotini): A versatile base that soaks up the flavors.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a deliciously gooey, cheesy top.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an herby flavor to the dish.
½ teaspoon dried basil: Complements the tomato sauce with a fragrant touch.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

If you want to enhance your ground beef casserole with some additional ingredients, consider adding these:

½ cup sour cream or cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture to the casserole.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a slightly nutty and salty flavor.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a hint of smoky flavor.
1 cup sliced mushrooms: Great for added texture and a savory taste.
Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish): Brightens up the dish and adds freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about making a ground beef casserole is how flexible the recipe is. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try:

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the meat entirely for a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta if you're looking to avoid gluten.
Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb version.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making a ground beef casserole is simple when you follow these steps:

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it's browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the diced onions and garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant.
Stir in Vegetables and Sauces: Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and vegetable mixture. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Casserole: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or cilantro.

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

Follow this guide to make your ground beef casserole perfect every time:

Prepping the Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are chopped, diced, and ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and faster.
Browning the Beef: Cook the beef until it's fully browned to ensure a good texture and flavor in the final dish.
Simmering the Sauce: Allow the tomato sauce to simmer for a few minutes with the beef to let the flavors meld together.
Combining with Pasta: Make sure to mix the pasta thoroughly with the beef mixture so that every bite is flavorful.
Baking: Bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and golden brown, creating a delicious crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes when making a ground beef casserole:

Overcooking the Pasta: Undercook the pasta slightly as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Using Too Much Grease: Drain the beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your meat and vegetables to build a full-flavored dish.
Not Letting it Cool: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow it to set properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a big difference when serving your ground beef casserole:

Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives over the casserole for a touch of color.
Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad to balance out the richness.
Crusty Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. Dish it up with a large serving spoon onto plates or into bowls. You can also prepare this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, which looks great at dinner parties.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

Layered Look: For an elegant touch, layer the pasta and beef mixture carefully and top with a generous amount of cheese for a uniform appearance.
Add Colorful Garnishes: Garnish with bright green herbs or even a few red pepper flakes for an appealing contrast.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve.
Freezer-Friendly: This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook them a bit longer to ensure they're tender.

Q: How can I make this casserole spicier?
A: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for extra heat.

Q: Can I substitute rice for the pasta?
A: Absolutely! Cooked rice works wonderfully in this casserole and absorbs the flavors well.

Q: How long does ground beef casserole last in the fridge?
A: It will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
A: For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the texture of the cheese nice and melty.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole recipe is a comforting, versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and satisfying textures, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you're meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this casserole has you covered. Try out some of the suggested variations to keep things interesting, and enjoy the delicious results!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with others who love a good homemade casserole, and let us know in the comments how you customized your dish!