When it comes to comfort food that brings families together, few dishes can match the heartwarming appeal of a well-crafted Ground Beef Casserole. This timeless recipe has been a staple in American kitchens for generations, offering the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and incredible flavor that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. The beauty of a Ground Beef Casserole lies in its remarkable versatility and ability to transform simple, affordable ingredients into a satisfying meal that feeds a crowd.
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Why You Should Try This Ultimate Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
What makes this Ground Beef Casserole truly special is its incredible adaptability to your family’s preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, accommodating different spice tolerances, or working with whatever vegetables happen to be in your refrigerator, this recipe serves as the perfect foundation for countless variations. The rich, savory flavors develop beautifully as the casserole bakes, creating layers of taste that complement each other perfectly.
From a practical standpoint, this Ground Beef Casserole excels as a make-ahead meal that actually improves with time. The flavors meld together overnight, making it an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts or busy parents who want to have dinner ready with minimal effort. The recipe uses budget-friendly ingredients that are readily available at any grocery store, making it accessible to families regardless of their cooking budget.
The nutritional benefits of this Ground Beef Casserole cannot be overlooked, as it provides a complete meal with protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates all in one dish. This makes it particularly appealing for parents who struggle to get their children to eat a balanced meal, as the familiar flavors and textures make vegetables more appealing when combined with savory ground beef and melted cheese.
Classic Comfort: Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
This hearty Ground Beef Casserole represents the epitome of home-style cooking, combining tender ground beef with layers of vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. The recipe creates a satisfying one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and comfort food satisfaction that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The simplicity of preparation makes this Ground Beef Casserole accessible to cooks of all skill levels while delivering restaurant-quality results.
Storage Options
Store leftover Ground Beef Casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, this casserole freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags, or freeze the entire casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying.
Classic Ground Beef Casserole
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Colander for draining
- Mixing bowls
- – Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- – Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds ground beef 80/20 blend
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can 10.75 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables begin to thaw.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and beef broth until well combined.
- Add the cooked noodles and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the beef mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Don’t overcook the noodles initially as they will continue cooking in the oven
For a richer flavor, substitute half the beef broth with red wine
Fresh vegetables can be substituted for frozen; just sauté them until tender
The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking
Tips for Success
Ensure your Ground Beef Casserole turns out perfectly every time by following these essential tips. First, properly drain the ground beef after browning to prevent a greasy casserole. Season each layer as you build the dish rather than adding all seasonings at once. Use room temperature sour cream to prevent curdling when mixing with hot ingredients. Don’t skip the resting period after baking, as this allows the casserole to set properly and makes serving much easier.
Additional Tips and Variations
Transform your basic Ground Beef Casserole into exciting variations by experimenting with different ingredients. Try adding diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist, or incorporate taco seasoning and top with crushed tortilla chips for a Mexican-inspired version. For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for beef and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Adding layers of sliced potatoes creates a hearty shepherd’s pie variation, while incorporating rice instead of noodles offers a different texture profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, this casserole is excellent for meal prep. Assemble completely and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover Ground Beef Casserole? A: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil. For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
Q: Can I freeze this Ground Beef Casserole? A: Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? A: Try cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, or make a homemade white sauce with flour, butter, and milk.
Q: How do I prevent my Ground Beef Casserole from being watery? A: Properly drain the ground beef and vegetables, and don’t overcook the noodles initially. If using fresh vegetables, sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Casserole recipe represents everything wonderful about comfort food: it’s satisfying, affordable, and brings families together around the dinner table. The combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy cheese creates a meal that appeals to all ages while providing the nutrition and energy needed for busy lives. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing for a potluck gathering, this Ground Beef Casserole delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for the recipe. The versatility of this dish means you can adapt it to your family’s preferences while maintaining the core elements that make it so beloved. Master this recipe, and you’ll have a reliable go-to meal that never fails to impress.
