This cheesy ground beef casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines seasoned ground beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it can be made ahead and reheated easily.
The recipe is simple and requires basic cooking techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
Comforting Layers of Flavor
This cheesy ground beef casserole is a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce. Each layer melds together beautifully, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
The rich flavors of the beef and the creamy sauce are perfectly complemented by the pasta, making it a wonderful choice for family dinners or gatherings. The bubbling cheese on top adds an irresistible allure, inviting everyone to dig in.
Simple Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet, then add onions and garlic for an aromatic base.
Once the beef is cooked, mix in diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, allowing the mixture to simmer. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.
Layering the Ingredients
After preparing the beef mixture, it’s time to combine it with the cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This creamy blend creates a rich filling that will be the heart of your casserole.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. The final touch is a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top, which will melt into a golden crust during baking.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 25-30 minutes. The goal is to achieve a bubbly and golden top that signals it’s ready to be served.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This waiting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Garnishing for Presentation
For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing your casserole with chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall presentation.
Serving this dish in a rustic baking dish adds to the comforting feel, making it perfect for a cozy meal at home. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete dinner experience.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This casserole serves six, making it ideal for family meals or meal prep. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste. This flexibility allows you to make it your own while still enjoying the comforting essence of a classic casserole.
Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
This casserole features layers of cooked pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich cheese sauce, all baked together until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, beef mixture, cheddar cheese, and sour cream until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g