Ground Beef Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or penne); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish, this ground beef casserole is perfect for family dinners and meal prep.

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:21:37.277Z

This ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food that brings the family together. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it's a dish everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory ground beef layered with rich flavors
Cheesy topping that adds a delicious crust
Easy to make and perfect for leftovers

      

A Comforting Classic

Ground beef casserole is a timeless dish that brings warmth to any family gathering. Its layered flavors and hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It's not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your family's preferences.

With its combination of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and tender pasta, this casserole provides a perfect balance of taste and texture. The rich, cheesy topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, ensuring you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe to create leftovers for the week ahead. Simply portion out the casserole into individual servings and store them in the refrigerator or freezer. This not only saves time on busy days but also provides you with a nutritious meal option that is ready to heat and eat.

When stored properly, the casserole can last in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months. Reheating is a breeze; just pop it in the oven or microwave, and you'll have a delicious, home-cooked meal in no time. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor or variety.

Customizing Your Casserole

This ground beef casserole is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like lentils for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses—try mozzarella or pepper jack to add a unique flavor profile.

Adding vegetables is another great way to customize your casserole. Consider including bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color. These additions not only enhance the taste but also make the dish more visually appealing, ensuring that your family will be excited to dig in.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or penne)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before layering in the casserole dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine with Pasta

In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with the cooked pasta. Mix well to combine.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

To ensure your ground beef casserole turns out perfectly every time, make sure to brown the meat thoroughly before adding any other ingredients. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to create a rich base for your dish. Don't skip draining the excess fat, as it will prevent your casserole from becoming greasy.

When combining the beef mixture with pasta, be careful not to overmix. Gently fold the ingredients together to keep the pasta intact and maintain a pleasing texture in the final bake. Additionally, using freshly grated cheese can elevate the taste and texture of your casserole, providing a creamier melt.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of a salad can balance the richness of the casserole, making for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

For a fun twist, consider topping your casserole with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs before baking for added crunch. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to brighten the dish and enhance its flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use homemade white sauce or any other cream soup like chicken or celery.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and store for up to 3 months.