Ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this casserole is sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the details of this mouth-watering recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and Italian seasoning.
- Add cooked pasta and frozen mixed vegetables; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to lighten the dish. Additionally, feel free to use any type of cheese or add spices like paprika for extra flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not draining the fat from the beef can make the dish greasy.
- Overcooking the pasta beforehand can lead to mushy texture.
- Using too much seasoning can overpower the flavors.
- Skipping the cooling time can result in messy servings.
- Not covering the dish while baking may dry it out.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh vegetables for better flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique taste.
- Make it a one-pot meal by using a Dutch oven.
- Top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can incorporate spices like cumin or chili powder, or even add some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used, but they should be pre-cooked to ensure they are tender when the casserole is done baking.
Conclusion
Ground beef casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the warm, savory flavors that make this casserole a family favorite!
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked pasta elbow or rotini
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, and Italian seasoning.
- Add cooked pasta and frozen mixed vegetables; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
