There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a hearty ground beef casserole for dinner. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! The rich flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that the whole family will adore. I love how versatile these casseroles are – you can toss in whatever you have on hand, making them perfect for busy weeknights or those lazy Sundays when you just want to relax. Plus, the aroma wafting through the house while it bakes is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you get a taste of this dish, it’ll be a staple in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onions (about 1 medium onion)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked pasta (I love using elbow macaroni or penne)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (don’t forget to drain them if you want less moisture)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, depending on your preference)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of your favorite herbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for that rich flavor)

How to Prepare Ground Beef Casseroles for Dinner

Making a ground beef casserole is a breeze when you follow these simple steps. I promise, with just a little prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to pop in the oven!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that the casserole cooks evenly throughout. You don’t want any cold spots in your dish, trust me!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the oven is warming up, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you’ll be ready for the next step!

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want to make sure it’s thoroughly browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Look for that lovely deep brown color—this is what adds so much flavor to your casserole!

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Once your beef is perfectly browned, it’s time to mix in those delicious diced tomatoes, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly distributed. This step is key! You want every bite to be bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Transfer and Top

Carefully transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now, for the best part—sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. I like to make sure it’s well-covered, so every bite has that gooey, cheesy goodness!

Step 6: Bake

Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Wow, the smell will be incredible! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving—this helps everything settle and makes for easier serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious ground beef casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 30g

This casserole packs quite a punch in the protein department, thanks to the ground beef and cheese, making it a fulfilling meal that keeps you satisfied. Enjoy it without guilt, knowing it’s a hearty dinner option for your family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
• Hearty Flavors: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and tomatoes creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the pasta or cheese, or add your favorite veggies—this recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity!

Tips for Success

To ensure your ground beef casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, these little tweaks can make all the difference!

• Use Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter, but don’t go too lean or it might lack flavor. A little fat adds richness!
• Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onions and garlic is crucial; it releases their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.
• Cooked Pasta: Make sure your pasta is al dente before mixing it in. It’ll absorb some sauce while baking, and this texture will keep your casserole from getting mushy.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix and match cheeses! Try mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. The world of cheese is your oyster!
• Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go. If you like it spicy, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños.
• Layering Flavors: Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions!
• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.
• Covering While Baking: If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the casserole finishes cooking.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making a ground beef casserole that’s not just delicious but absolutely unforgettable! Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Variations

One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your tastes or use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Different Pasta Shapes: Swap out the elbow macaroni for something like penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a bit of extra fiber. Each shape brings a unique texture that can change the whole vibe of the dish!
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the beef. You’ll not only boost the flavor but also the health benefits!
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. It’ll give your casserole a delightful kick that spice lovers will appreciate!
• Herb Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. Instead of Italian seasoning, try a taco seasoning mix for a Tex-Mex twist or some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Cheese Choices: Mix it up with different cheeses! Try mozzarella for a gooey texture, or go bold with blue cheese crumbles. You can even use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
• Protein Alternatives: For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You could also try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.
• Creamy Twist: Add a can of cream of mushroom soup or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture for a creamier texture. It’ll make your casserole extra rich and comforting!
• Top It Off: Before baking, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top along with the cheese for added crunch. It’s a nice surprise and adds extra texture to each bite!

Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear how you customize yours!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying your delicious ground beef casserole later! Once the casserole has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure to label the container with the date, so I know when I need to finish it up!

If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just move it to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating.

Now, for reheating, you have a couple of options. If you want to maintain that lovely, cheesy top, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish if it isn’t already. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

If you’re in a rush, you can microwave individual portions! Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s warmed all the way through. Remember, the key is to avoid overheating it, or the texture might get a little off. Enjoy every bite of your comforting casserole, even as leftovers!

Get Involved

I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Have you tried making this ground beef casserole? What did you think? Did you make any fun tweaks or variations? Your stories and experiences make this cooking journey even more special! So, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Whether you loved it, added your own personal touch, or even if you faced a little hiccup in the kitchen, I’m all ears!

If you’re enjoying this recipe, I’d appreciate it if you could give it a rating too! It really helps others find this hearty dish and brings our cooking community together. Plus, it’s always exciting to see what you all create in your kitchens. Let’s inspire each other with our culinary adventures!

So, don’t be shy—let’s chat! I can’t wait to hear how your casseroles turn out and any tips you might want to share. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our easy casseroles for kids and casseroles mastering comfort food techniques!

Ground Beef Casseroles for Dinner: 7 Hearty Essentials

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A hearty ground beef casserole that combines rich flavors and textures.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
4. Add ground beef, cook until browned.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked pasta, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Notes

• For a spicy variation, add chopped jalapeños.
• Consider using different types of cheese for flavor variations.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for presentation.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground beef casseroles for dinner, beef casserole recipes, easy dinner recipes