Easy Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

A warm aroma wafts through the kitchen as the oven works its magic on a comforting casserole with ground beef. Picture this—savory layers of tender meat, creamy sauce, and bubbly cheese that beckons you to dig in. It’s like receiving a warm hug from your grandma after a long day.

Now, let me take you back to that one fateful dinner when I attempted this masterpiece. My family gathered around the table, forks poised like eager knights ready for battle. The first bite was met with blissful silence—a silence so profound it could almost hear the angels sing. A comforting casserole with ground beef doesn’t just fill bellies; it creates memories.

I remember the moment my sister took her first bite of this dish at a family gathering; her eyes lit up like she had won the lottery. Everyone else followed suit, proving that laughter and love are best served alongside a hearty meal.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease while keeping it flavorful and juicy.
• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring an aromatic punch to the dish; don’t skimp on this flavor booster.
• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes packed in juice; they add moisture without overwhelming flavor.
• Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or elbow macaroni are ideal as they hold sauce well.
• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar provides gooeyness; mix them for an irresistible cheesy layer!
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian herbs—these little guys elevate every layer of flavor in your casserole.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large skillet and sauté finely chopped onions over medium heat until they turn translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and stir until aromatic—this should take about one minute.
• Next up is the star of our show! Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned all over—about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary; we want flavor without swimming!
• Now we introduce our canned tomatoes! Pour them into the skillet along with cooked pasta—this is where magic happens! Stir everything together while adding salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.
• Transfer this tantalizing mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese of your choice; don’t be shy here! Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Once done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes; trust me—it’s worth it! Serve hot and watch everyone savor each bite as they reminisce about their own childhood comfort foods.

If you’re feeling adventurous or have picky eaters at home, customize this comforting casserole with ground beef by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers—and boom! You’ve got yourself a family classic that not only satisfies but also brings everyone together around the dinner table again!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef and onions first, then layer in veggies and cheese as you build your casserole. This ensures even cooking and flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to throw in some diced peppers, swap out the cheese, or use turkey instead of beef. Personalize it to create your signature dish.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

I remember the first time I made this comforting casserole with ground beef for my friends. They devoured it in minutes and insisted I share the recipe. That moment sparked my passion for cooking!

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, refrigerate it overnight, and bake when ready.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Garlic bread or a fresh green salad complement this comforting casserole perfectly.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to two months without losing flavor.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Savor the nostalgia of this easy casserole, featuring savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tender pasta—a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups short pasta (like penne or elbow macaroni)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian herbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onions over medium heat until translucent. Add garlic and cook for one minute.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and cooked pasta. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg