Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s a hearty, comforting Ground Beef Casserole recipe — cheesy, satisfying, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

🍲 Classic Ground Beef Casserole

🔪 Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow, penne, or rotini)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup sour cream (optional, for a creamy version)

• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the beef mixture

   • In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.

   • Drain excess fat.

   • Add onion and garlic, cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

2. Add sauce ingredients

   • Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings.

   • Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

3. Mix with pasta

   • Combine the beef mixture with cooked pasta.

   • Stir in sour cream if using (for a creamy casserole).

4. Layer in a baking dish

   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

   • Pour the mixture in, spread evenly.

   • Top with shredded cheese.

5. Bake

   • Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Garnish and serve

   • Let it rest for 5–10 minutes.

   • Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

🧀 Variations:

• Add veggies: Mix in cooked spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

• Swap pasta: Use egg noodles, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta.