Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, bubbling casserole fresh from the oven. This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect dinner solution, offering hearty flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness that the whole family will adore. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this guide will help you prepare this classic dish with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: A simple, one-dish meal that’s ready in about an hour.
• Versatile: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or pantry staples.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15 blend preferred)
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine the cooked pasta with the beef and tomato mixture in the skillet, stirring until well coated.
2. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Cheese: Use cheddar for sharpness or mozzarella for a gooey texture. Mix them for the best of both worlds.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Season to Taste: Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to suit your family’s palate.

Variations and Substitutions

• Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken and whole wheat pasta for a lighter version.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added nutrients.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for unique flavors.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

Pairing Suggestions

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed green beans or a side salad
• A glass of red wine or iced tea

Enjoy your Simple Ground Beef Casserole—a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat!