Introduction
Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. With layers of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and satisfying pasta, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and yields impressive results every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this mouthwatering Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole.
Ingredients
To make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create your Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Once the beef mixture is ready, stir in the cooked pasta until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, covering the entire surface of the casserole.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations you can try:
– Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef
– Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
– Mix in cooked bacon or sausage for a richer flavor
– Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique twist
Tips
For the best results when making Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole, keep these tips in mind:
– Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the casserole
– Don’t overcook the pasta before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven
– Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to develop before serving
– Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying to eat. With its layers of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
Experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish your own, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Once baked, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What side dishes pair well with Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole?
A: This casserole goes well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted potatoes or a crusty baguette.
Q: How can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole more kid-friendly?
A: To make this dish more appealing to kids, consider adding some hidden veggies like finely grated carrots or zucchini to the beef mixture. You can also let them help with the assembly process for a fun cooking activity.
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
A comforting and delicious casserole with layers of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and satisfying pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
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1 pound lean ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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8 oz uncooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook ground beef in a skillet with onion and garlic. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside. Mix cooked pasta with beef mixture.
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Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10 minutes.
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Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
