Ground beef casserole is one of the most comforting meals you can make at home. It is warm, filling, and full of rich flavors that everyone in the family enjoys. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked together in one pan.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a great option for families who want a delicious homemade meal.
Casseroles are also very flexible. You can easily add vegetables, change the type of pasta, or adjust the seasoning to match your taste. If you enjoy simple beef meals, you may also like recipes shared on our site such as
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Why You Will Love This Ground Beef Casserole
There are many reasons why this recipe is so popular in home kitchens.
Simple Ingredients
Most ingredients are common pantry staples that you may already have at home.
Easy to Prepare
The recipe requires minimal preparation and can be ready for the oven quickly.
Perfect Comfort Food
The combination of savory beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish.
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Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole
Main Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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2 cups cooked pasta such as penne or macaroni
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1 small onion chopped
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2 cloves garlic minced
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1 cup tomato sauce
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1 cup crushed tomatoes
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Ingredients
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1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
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1/2 cup mushrooms
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
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1/2 cup sour cream for extra creaminess
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Basic Cooking Tools
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Large skillet
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Mixing bowl
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Casserole baking dish
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Wooden spoon
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Oven
How to Make Ground Beef Casserole
Step 1 Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is just tender. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2 Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it turns brown. Break the meat apart with a spoon while cooking.
Step 3 Add Onion and Garlic
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about three minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
Step 4 Add Tomato Sauce and Seasoning
Pour in the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer for five minutes.
Step 5 Combine Pasta and Beef
Add the cooked pasta to the beef mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6 Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7 Bake the Casserole
Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Casserole
Use Good Quality Beef
Fresh ground beef will give the casserole a richer flavor.
Do Not Overcook Pasta
Cook the pasta slightly firm so it does not become too soft while baking.
Add Vegetables
You can easily add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots to increase nutrition.
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Serving Suggestions
Ground beef casserole pairs well with many side dishes.
Fresh Salad
A light green salad balances the rich flavors of the casserole.
Garlic Bread
Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Steamed Vegetables
Broccoli or green beans make a healthy side option.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Freezer
This casserole can also be frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm throughout.
Nutrition Benefits
Ground beef provides protein, iron, and essential vitamins. When combined with pasta and vegetables, this casserole becomes a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied for hours.
