Description
This Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty and comforting American classic, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or family meal. It combines browned ground beef with flavorful tomato sauce and seasoned vegetables, layered with cooked pasta and creamy sour cream, then topped with a gooey blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses baked to perfection. Customize it with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
Pasta Mixture
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or elbow recommended)
- 1 cup sour cream
Toppings
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step develops the base flavor of the casserole.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromas. Then add the tomato sauce and drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sour Cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sour cream, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated and creamy.
- Mix Beef and Pasta Together: Add the beef and tomato mixture to the bowl with pasta and sour cream. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined for a consistent blend of flavors and textures.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole to create a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown in spots.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool slightly for easier serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the beef mixture for more nutrients and flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter, tangy alternative.
- This casserole is freezer-friendly: assemble ahead of time and bake when ready for an easy make-ahead meal.
