Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple yet hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, this Simple Ground Beef Casserole is just what you need. It combines seasoned ground beef, pasta or rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked together into a comforting and satisfying casserole. This recipe uses basic ingredients you probably already have on hand, and it’s easy to customize based on your family’s tastes. Stick around for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and some easy substitutions to make this dish even more versatile!

this Recipe

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What is a Simple Ground Beef Casserole?

A Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a one-dish meal that layers seasoned ground beef with pasta (or rice), a creamy sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy nights when you want to get dinner on the table fast. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity—most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and you can adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or whatever you have in your kitchen.

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Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. This recipe serves about 4-6 people and can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor, or use leaner if preferred)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini, cooked al dente) or 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)

These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy casserole with savory ground beef that’s sure to please the whole family.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Simple Ground Beef Casserole is its versatility. Here are a few substitutions and variations to customize the recipe to your liking:

• Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork if you prefer. You can also use plant-based ground beef for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Choices: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a little heat.
• Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the nutritional content of the casserole.
• Pasta or Rice: Use whatever you have on hand—short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni work well, or you can use cooked white or brown rice instead of pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice and check that your canned soup and other ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Healthier Option: For a lighter version, use low-fat sour cream, cheese, and a leaner ground beef or turkey.

These variations make the dish more flexible and allow you to create a version of the casserole that perfectly fits your family’s preferences.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s go step by step to make this Simple Ground Beef Casserole. It’s an easy dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish (9x13-inch works well) with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta or Rice

If you’re using pasta, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (slightly firm), according to package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. If you’re using rice, cook it according to package instructions, and set aside when done.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 4: Add Onion, Garlic, and Seasonings

Once the ground beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Stir in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce, and cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and diced tomatoes (make sure the tomatoes are drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole). Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

In the same large bowl, add the cooked ground beef mixture, pasta (or rice), and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the creamy sauce. Stir everything together until evenly coated.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top to create a delicious cheesy layer.

Step 8: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden-brown finish, you can switch on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to scoop into portions.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Simple Ground Beef Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Skipping the draining step: Drain the excess grease from the cooked ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
• Not draining the tomatoes: Be sure to drain the diced tomatoes to avoid adding too much liquid to the casserole, which can make it watery.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This casserole is a family-friendly, no-fuss meal, but there are a few ways to make it extra special when serving!

How to Serve Simple Ground Beef Casserole

• Serve the casserole hot, directly from the baking dish. Use a large spoon to scoop portions onto plates.
• Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• If you like, serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up any of the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

• Garnish the top with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Serve individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets for a more rustic, cozy presentation.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle the top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs during the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

To ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few additional tips:

• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. Just cover it tightly with foil and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. You can also use ground chicken or pork.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Q: What other vegetables can I add to the casserole?
A: You can add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to the casserole for extra veggies. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before combining them with the beef.

Q: Can I use store-bought pasta sauce instead of the soup mixture?
A: Yes, if you prefer a tomato-based sauce, you can use marinara or your favorite pasta sauce instead of the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream mixture.

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Conclusion

The Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a family favorite that’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. With its combination of seasoned beef, pasta or rice, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this casserole is comfort food at its finest. It’s also a versatile dish, so you can easily adjust it based on what you have in your kitchen or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or planning ahead for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

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