Are you looking for a comforting and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? This Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is the perfect solution! Casseroles are classic, versatile, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table quickly. Loaded with savory ground beef, hearty vegetables, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Stick around as we dive deep into this delicious recipe, complete with tips and variations to make it your own. Keep reading to discover how to make this tasty casserole that will soon become a family favorite!
What is Ground Beef Casserole?
Ground beef casserole is a baked dish typically made with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, pasta or rice, and topped with cheese. It's a one-dish wonder that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The casserole is baked to perfection until bubbly and golden brown, making it a delicious meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort. This recipe can also be customized with your favorite ingredients, allowing you to get creative while feeding a crowd. Ready to learn how to make this easy and tasty dish? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole
To make the Simple Ground Beef Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients. These are pantry staples that you might already have, and the recipe can easily be adjusted based on what’s in your kitchen:
- 1 pound ground beef – The star of the show! Ground beef is flavorful and cooks quickly, making it the ideal protein for this dish.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and a savory flavor base to the casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – A key ingredient for creating the savory sauce that binds the casserole together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds complexity to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little bit of heat and seasoning.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) – For added texture and nutrition.
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, elbow macaroni, or any short pasta) – This gives the casserole a hearty base.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully over the top for a cheesy, satisfying finish.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional) – Adds a crispy topping to the casserole if desired.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about casseroles is how flexible they are. Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version of the dish.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Different Pasta Shapes: Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, like rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with cauliflower rice or spaghetti squash for a low-carb casserole alternative.
- Spicier Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and possible variations in mind, let’s walk through the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delicious ground beef casserole.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. It’s best to slightly undercook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it’s fully browned and no pink remains. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the onions and garlic. Once the beef is browned, add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and sauce. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the frozen vegetables to the skillet and stir them into the beef mixture. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
- Combine with pasta. Stir the cooked pasta into the beef and vegetable mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If you like a crunchy texture, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you used breadcrumbs, they should be golden brown.
- Let it rest. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut and serve.
How to Cook Ground Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
The key to cooking a great Ground Beef Casserole lies in layering the flavors and ensuring everything is cooked evenly. Here’s a quick recap of the cooking steps to make sure you have a foolproof method:
- Brown the Beef: Always start by browning the beef in a skillet. This step helps render the fat and develop a deep, savory flavor.
- Build the Sauce: After browning the beef, add in the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings to create a flavorful sauce base.
- Mix in Vegetables: Adding frozen vegetables not only adds nutrition but also texture and color to your casserole.
- Combine with Pasta: Mixing the pasta into the beef and vegetable mixture ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
- Top with Cheese: The cheese topping is the finishing touch that makes the casserole rich and satisfying.
- Bake to Perfection: Baking allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the cheese becomes perfectly melty and golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your Ground Beef Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Pasta: Slightly undercook your pasta before mixing it into the casserole. This way, it won’t become mushy after baking.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Be cautious when adding extra liquid like broth or more tomato sauce. Too much liquid can make your casserole soggy.
- Forgetting to Drain the Ground Beef: If your ground beef has excess fat, be sure to drain it after browning. Too much grease can make the casserole oily.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the casserole rest after baking allows it to firm up, making it easier to serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your Simple Ground Beef Casserole can elevate the dining experience. Here are a few ideas to make it extra special:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, basil, or green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with:
- A light, refreshing salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the hearty casserole.
- Crusty Bread: Slices of fresh, crusty bread or garlic bread help soak up any extra sauce from the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add even more vegetables to the meal, serve the casserole alongside roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole
While a casserole might not seem fancy, you can still make it look appealing by following these simple presentation ideas:
- Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes for a more personalized touch.
- Layered Look: If you want to make the dish visually appealing, arrange the pasta and beef in even layers before topping it with cheese. This creates a neat and organized presentation when you cut into it.
- Garnish with Cheese and Herbs: A final sprinkle of fresh herbs and a little extra cheese on top before serving can make the dish look more appetizing.
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are a few additional tips to ensure your Ground Beef Casserole turns out delicious every time:
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
- Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of this casserole.
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta and make sure any canned ingredients (like the tomato sauce) are labeled gluten-free.
Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I add more cheese?
A: Yes, if you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add more cheese on top or even mix some into the casserole for an extra cheesy result.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. It’s packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and vegetables, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Plus, with plenty of room for variations, you can make it your own by swapping in different ingredients or adjusting the seasoning. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, family-friendly dinner that’s sure to become a regular on your meal rotation!
PrintSimple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
This simple ground beef casserole recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring seasoned ground beef, cheese, and pasta, it's a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy. The rich flavors of this casserole are brought together with a creamy sauce and baked to perfection, making it a delicious and easy meal for any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pasta (elbow or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef, cooking until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain.
- Mix pasta with sour cream, then combine with beef mixture in the skillet.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about ⅙ of the dish)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650 mg
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