GRandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Introduction

Welcome to a recipe that has been passed down through generations – Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole. This hearty and delicious dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavors, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

To make Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1 onion, diced

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 can diced tomatoes

1 can tomato sauce

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups cooked pasta

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Steps

Follow these steps to make Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the ground beef mixture. Repeat the layers once more. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations

Feel free to customize Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole with your favorite ingredients. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Cheesy Topping

For an extra cheesy twist, mix in some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese with the cheddar cheese topping.

Spicy Kick

If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Tips

Here are a few tips to make the most out of your Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole:

Feel free to use different types of pasta, such as penne or rotini, for added variety.

If you have leftovers, this casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless recipe that brings comfort and nostalgia to the dinner table. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has been cherished for generations. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the warmth and goodness of this classic casserole.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole freezes well. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.