If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at your table, this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a luscious blend of cheeses all baked to gooey, golden perfection. Its simplicity in ingredients and steps makes it an ideal weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings. Once you try this cozy, cheesy casserole, it might just become one of your all-time favorites to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe just right means using simple but essential ingredients that each bring their own special something to the dish — from texture to vibrant color and robust flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: The rich and savory protein base that forms the heart of this casserole.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps cook the onions and beef evenly.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when softened in the skillet.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant and savory boost to the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a bit of background warmth to each bite.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens and complements the beef and tomato sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base that brings everything together.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and an extra hit of tangy tomato goodness.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or elbow): Makes the casserole wonderfully filling and perfectly tender when cooked.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or blend): For that irresistibly melty, creamy, and sharp cheesy crown.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the savory notes.
- ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional): Elevates the texture with a smooth, velvety touch that melds beautifully with the sour cream.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions: A fresh, bright garnish that adds color and a pop of herbal flavor.
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking later. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente, following the package directions. Once perfectly tender but still firm, drain it and set it aside — this pasta will soak up all the delicious sauce flavors as it bakes.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics and brown the beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with the promise of something wonderful. Stir in the minced garlic off the heat for about 30 seconds to keep it from burning, then add the ground beef. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning and cook until the beef is browned through, breaking up any clumps as it cooks. Drain excess grease to keep the casserole from turning greasy.
Step 3: Combine meat and tomato sauce
Pour the tomato sauce and undrained diced tomatoes into the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and deepen into a rich and savory sauce that sets the foundation of the casserole.
Step 4: Mix pasta with creamy cheeses and meat sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with sour cream and the optional ricotta or cottage cheese if you’re using them. This mixture creates a creamy layer that adds moisture and smoothness. Add the meat and tomato sauce mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and texture.
Step 5: Assemble and bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Pour in the pasta and meat mixture, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top for a golden, bubbling finish. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly, signaling that your Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is ready to delight.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touch to this hearty casserole is a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Not only do these garnishes add a pop of vibrant green color, but they also offer a fresh, mildly pungent contrast that lifts the whole dish beautifully, making each serving look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider pairing the casserole with a simple crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of steamed seasonal vegetables. These additions bring a refreshing crunch and additional nutrition, balancing the rich, cheesy components of the casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This personal touch makes it feel extra special for guests or family dinners. You can also top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of fresh avocado for a creamy, cool contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover portion of your Ground Beef Casserole Recipe into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes a perfect next-day meal that tastes just as good warmed up.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Place the uncooked assembled casserole (before baking) or fully cooked and cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or foil-wrapped dishes. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, bake leftovers in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave single servings on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring half-way to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini or elbow macaroni are great because they hold sauce well, feel free to use penne, shells, or even whole wheat varieties depending on your preference or pantry stock.
Is it possible to make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, substituting ground beef with ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative that still tastes delicious. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and perhaps add a touch more seasoning for extra flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture is a fantastic way to sneak in more nutrients and variety. Just sauté them along with the onions for best results.
What cheese works best for this Ground Beef Casserole Recipe?
Cheddar cheese provides a nice sharp flavor and melts beautifully. Mixing cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack can create a milder, creamier texture. Feel free to use what you like or have on hand!
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure not to overcook the pasta during boiling, as it will continue to soften in the oven. Also, including sour cream and optional ricotta or cottage cheese adds moisture. Covering the casserole loosely with foil while baking can help retain moisture as well.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is the perfect combination of ease, comfort, and crowd-pleasing deliciousness. It’s one of those recipes you can rely on to bring warmth and smiles to your table without fuss. If you’ve never tried making a casserole from scratch, this is a fantastic starting point that’s flexible and full of flavor. Give it a go soon — your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!
Print
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Ground Beef Casserole featuring tender pasta, flavorful seasoned beef, and a rich blend of cheeses. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole balances savory tomato sauce with creamy sour cream and ricotta, baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Pasta and Dairy
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or elbow)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned, breaking up meat as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer: Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juice. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Combine Pasta and Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sour cream, and ricotta or cottage cheese if using. Add the meat sauce and stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can swap pasta for cooked rice or use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra vegetables and flavor.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef while cooking.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
