There’s something timeless about a warm, bubbling casserole coming out of the oven — hearty, cheesy, and filled with love. This Ground Beef Casserole delivers all the comfort of a home-cooked meal with the simplicity you need on busy nights. Packed with savory beef, tender pasta, and layers of gooey cheese, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around the table for seconds.
Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family dinner, or just a craving for comfort, this easy recipe hits the spot every single time.
🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Family favorite: Kids and adults both love its cheesy, hearty flavor.
- Perfect for meal prep: Reheats beautifully throughout the week.
- Customizable: Add veggies or switch up the cheese for fun variations.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz / 227g) tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
For the Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne work great)
- ½ cup bread crumbs (optional, for crunch)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray to keep the casserole from sticking and to create that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Base
Stir in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let the flavors combine into a rich, savory sauce.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until evenly coated with the beef mixture.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — this is your chance to make it perfect!
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
For an optional crispy topping, mix bread crumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese — and dig in!
🍛 Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli
🔄 Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions.
💡 Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use lean ground beef (85–90%) for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Add a handful of mozzarella with the cheddar for extra stretchiness.
- Sneak in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a nutritious twist.
- Love spice? A pinch of smoked paprika or hot sauce gives it a kick.
🧾 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 460 | Protein: 27g | Fat: 25g | Carbs: 35g | Fiber: 3g
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