Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s a classic, crowd-pleasing Ground Beef Casserole recipe—comfort food at its best! It’s cheesy, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

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🥘 Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients:

For the Meat Base:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta Layer:

• 8 oz pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini work great)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup cottage cheese or ricotta

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Topping:

• 1–1.5 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion. Drain excess fat.

   • Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

   • Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

3. Mix the Cheese Layer:

   • In a bowl, mix cooked pasta with sour cream, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and 1/2 cup shredded cheese.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer:

     1. Half the pasta mixture

     2. All of the meat sauce

     3. Remaining pasta mixture

   • Top evenly with shredded cheese.

5. Bake:

   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish & Serve:

   • Let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley if desired, and serve!

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📝 Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce.

• Low-Carb: Replace pasta with roasted cauliflower or zucchini slices.

• More Veggies: Mix in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the meat.

Want a freezer-friendly version or one with tater tots or potatoes instead of pasta?