Ground Beef Casserole

Cooking often brings back fond memories, especially when it comes to classic dishes like ground beef casserole. I remember cozy family dinners where we gathered around the table to indulge in comforting meals that warmed our hearts as much as our bellies. Ground beef casserole, with its hearty layers and rich flavors, always stood out as a go-to recipe. It combines simple ingredients to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

This comfort food features ground beef and pasta, all baked together with a creamy sauce, bringing everyone together for a delicious experience. The best part? You can easily adapt it to your taste or what you have on hand. Ground beef casserole showcases how you can create something extraordinary from everyday ingredients.

As I explore the deliciousness of ground beef casserole, I think about the joy of sharing it with friends and family. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish and create memories that will linger long after the last bite.

Ground Beef Casserole

Fundamentals

Ground beef casserole begins with some fundamental ingredients that are both accessible and timeless. The rich ground beef provides the foundational flavor and protein, making it a satisfying choice for dinner. When combined with chopped onions, these two create a savory base that sets the stage for the rest of the dish.

Cooked pasta plays a crucial role in this casserole. It lends a delightful texture and contributes to the heartiness of each bite. Then add diced tomatoes for a touch of freshness and the cream of mushroom soup for a rich, creamy quality that binds the entire casserole together.

Preparation/Setup

Before you start assembling the casserole, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and emerges from the oven bubbling and golden brown.

In a skillet, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Heating it over medium heat allows the beef to brown beautifully while the onions become tender and fragrant. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat; this ensures that your dish remains pleasantly rich without being greasy.

Ingredients

For this ground beef casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preferred type)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Each component contributes to the dish’s flavor and texture, making it quintessential comfort food that delights every palate.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your comfort food!

Casserole Strategies for Success

Technique

Creating the perfect ground beef casserole involves using techniques that maximize flavor and texture. Start by ensuring that the ground beef is well-browned. This step not only enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction but also provides a rich base for the casserole.

When combining the ingredients, mix thoroughly to ensure that every spoonful captures the blend of flavors. This uniform mixture helps in evenly distributing the seasoned beef and creamy sauce throughout the pasta.

Tips/Tricks

To elevate your ground beef casserole, consider adding different vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. These additions not only enhance the nutrition but also provide varied textures that make each bite exciting.

If you prefer a bit more spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture to give your casserole a kick. You can also experiment with different seasonings to create your unique flavor profile.

Perfecting Ground Beef Casserole

Perfecting Results

Perfecting your ground beef casserole boils down to baking it to just the right point. Aim for a bubbly and golden surface, as it signals that the cheese has melted beautifully and the flavors have melded together.

Using a glass or ceramic baking dish helps to achieve even baking, so opt for these materials if possible. Always let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Troubleshooting/Variations

One common issue with casseroles is a dry texture. If your casserole feels too dry, consider adding a bit more cream of mushroom soup or a splash of broth before baking. Alternatively, if it becomes too watery, let it bake a bit longer to evaporate excess moisture.

For variations, you can try using different types of pasta or introducing a blend of cheeses for multiple flavors. Experiment with proteins too—ground turkey or chicken work wonderfully in this recipe.

Serving with Style

Serving/Presentation

Ground beef casserole serves as a centerpiece to any meal, and presentation can make it even more appealing. Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil to garnish the casserole just before serving. This splash of color not only enhances the visual but also uplifts the flavors.

Pair this dish with a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Fresh greens and your favorite dressing bring a refreshing contrast that elevates the overall dining experience.

Pairings/Storage

Great sides for ground beef casserole include garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. These pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the casserole, making it a well-rounded meal.

When it comes to storage, allow any leftover casserole to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm it in the oven for a fresh taste.

Conclusion

Ground beef casserole embodies the comfort and delight of home-cooked meals. With its straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, it allows anyone to enjoy a hearty dish that feeds both the tummy and the soul. Each layer delivers a delicious experience that beckons family and friends to gather around the table. As you embrace this classic recipe, may it become a part of your cherished traditions, creating memories that fill the heart as much as the plate.

Ground Beef Casserole

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and hearty ground beef casserole baked with pasta, diced tomatoes, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your preferred type)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your comfort food!

Notes

For variations, try adding different vegetables or using various types of cheese for added flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: casserole, comfort food, ground beef, pasta, easy dinner