Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile, look no further than this irresistible Ground Beef Casserole. Loaded with savory beef, tender pasta, creamy sauce, and plenty of melty cheese, this casserole is the kind of dish that instantly feels like a family favorite. Easy enough for busy weeknights, yet comforting enough for Sunday suppers, it’s hearty, delicious, and ready to warm both kitchen and heart.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Ground Beef Casserole is that it calls for simple staples—each ingredient plays a special part, from building layers of flavor to creating that gorgeous bubbly finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Ground beef: The rich, savory base that infuses the entire casserole with flavor.
• Onion (diced): Provides a gentle sweetness and irresistible aroma when sautéed.
• Garlic (minced): Adds deep, earthy notes that pair perfectly with the seasoned beef.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors of your ingredients.
• Black pepper: Offers just the right amount of heat and depth.
• Italian seasoning: A classic blend that adds brightness and a hint of herbs.
• Diced tomatoes (drained): Brings a pop of color and juicy, tangy flavor to the filling.
• Tomato sauce: Binds everything together and keeps the casserole moist.
• Cooked pasta (elbow or rotini): Perfect for holding onto every bit of savory sauce and cheesy goodness.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy, luxurious texture to the pasta layers.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into gooey, golden perfection for that crave-worthy finish.
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Gives a classic, stretchy melt on top.
• Chopped parsley (optional): Offers a fresh, vibrant finishing touch.

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Beef, Onion, and Garlic

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding your ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook everything together, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink, and your kitchen is filled with the comforting aroma of sautéed onion and garlic. Drain off any excess fat so the casserole isn’t greasy—this keeps the flavors focused and the texture just right.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in your salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir so every piece of beef is coated with seasoning. Next, add the drained diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This creates the hearty, savory foundation of your Ground Beef Casserole.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sour Cream

Grab a separate mixing bowl and combine your cooked pasta with the sour cream. This step adds extra creaminess to each bite and helps the pasta stay luscious and tender after baking. Toss until every piece of pasta is coated—this becomes one of the secret weapons for a truly comforting casserole.

Step 4: Layer It Up

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and then get ready to layer! First, spread half of your creamy pasta mixture in an even layer at the bottom. Top that with half of the beef mixture, then sprinkle on half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers—remaining pasta, remaining beef, and then cover it all with the rest of the cheddar plus the mozzarella cheese for a beautiful, melty topping.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and transfer it to a 350°F oven. Bake for 20 minutes to heat everything through, then remove the foil for the final 10 minutes. This last stretch allows the cheese to get golden, bubbly, and irresistible. Let it cool slightly before garnishing with parsley and serving warm so every slice stays intact and packed with flavor.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley is classic, but you can also try sliced scallions or a light dusting of Parmesan to boost the color and flavor just before serving. These little touches elevate the overall look and add a burst of freshness to each slice.

Side Dishes

This casserole is rich and hearty, so it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread lets you mop up any extra sauce, making for a meal that’s truly satisfying and well rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking your Ground Beef Casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings at family gatherings, or dish it out in hearty wedges for casual weeknight dinners. For potlucks or parties, cut the casserole into squares and serve with toothpicks for a fun, cheesy finger food option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Ground Beef Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors often get even better the next day as they blend together, making for perfect lunches or speedy weeknight meals.

Freezing

This casserole is very freezer-friendly! Simply let it cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly in foil or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20 to 30 minutes. Individual portions can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through and the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While elbow and rotini pasta are classic choices for holding sauce and cheese, you can use penne, shells, or any short pasta you have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente so it holds its shape in the casserole.

What meat substitutions work well in Ground Beef Casserole?

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles if you prefer. Just remember to season the mixture well, as leaner meats can use a little extra flavor boost.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Stir in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when you add the tomatoes and sauce. It’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and color, making your Ground Beef Casserole even more wholesome.

Is it possible to prepare Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes if starting from cold, and bake as directed until hot and bubbly.

What’s the best way to prevent a watery casserole?

Be sure to drain your diced tomatoes thoroughly and cook off any excess liquid in the beef mixture. Also, avoid overcooking your pasta before assembling the casserole so it doesn’t become mushy or absorb too much sauce.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Ground Beef Casserole enough—it’s easy, hearty, and overflowing with comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just looking for delicious leftovers, give this recipe a try and watch it become an instant favorite!

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