Why Make This Recipe
Baked Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for the whole family. It combines savory ground beef with pasta, tomatoes, and cheese, creating a satisfying dish that warms the soul. It’s not just delicious but also practical, as it can be made in advance and reheats well. Whether you’re serving it for a weekday dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Baked Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, uncooked pasta, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Baked Ground Beef Casserole
You can serve Baked Ground Beef Casserole straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top before serving.
How to Store Baked Ground Beef Casserole
To store Baked Ground Beef Casserole, let it cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Baked Ground Beef Casserole
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
- Customize the pasta shape to your liking, as different shapes can change the texture of the dish.
- Add vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite blend.
Variation
You can make a lighter version by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Is it possible to use whole wheat pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for a healthier dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
3. Can I add more cheese on top?
Yes, feel free to add more cheese! Extra cheese will make the casserole even cheesier and more delicious. Just keep an eye on it while baking to prevent burning.
Baked Ground Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Beef
Description
A comforting baked casserole featuring savory ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, uncooked pasta, beef broth, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Notes
For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, beef, family meal, comfort food, easy recipe