Looking for a comforting dish that combines hearty flavors and simple ingredients? This baked ground beef casserole is the answer! Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week, it offers a delicious blend of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping.
Imagine a warm, bubbling casserole that is both satisfying and easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite vegetables or change up the spices to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Baked Ground Beef Casserole
The baked ground beef casserole is truly a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Its layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese make it a favorite for family dinners.
With a few simple ingredients, this dish manages to be both hearty and satisfying. The use of ground beef allows for quick cooking, while the addition of pasta adds a fulfilling element that ties all the components together seamlessly.
Layering Flavors for Maximum Enjoyment
Each layer of this casserole contributes to its overall appeal. Starting with the seasoned beef, which is cooked until browned, it provides a savory base that is enhanced by the garlic and onion sautéed to perfection.
The bright acidity of the tomatoes complements the richness of the meat, creating a balanced profile. When combined with the creamy sauce, it elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The Importance of Pasta Choice
Pasta selection plays a vital role in this casserole. Options like elbow or penne are not just traditional; they hold onto the sauce beautifully. Their shapes allow for a delightful bite that contrasts well with the tender meat.
Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures that it maintains its structure during baking, preventing it from becoming overly soft. This is key for a casserole that boasts both texture and heartiness.
Cheese: The Finishing Touch
No casserole is complete without a generous topping of cheese. Shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan provide a rich layer that melts into a bubbly, golden crust.
This cheesy layer not only adds flavor but also creates an inviting visual appeal that makes the dish hard to resist. The combination of different cheeses can also be customized, allowing for personal preferences or dietary needs.
A Meal for Any Occasion
This baked ground beef casserole is versatile enough to serve at family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. It offers convenience without compromising on taste, making it an appealing choice for busy lifestyles.
The leftovers can be just as satisfying, as the flavors meld together beautifully after resting. Pairing it with a fresh green salad enhances the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
Setting the Scene for Enjoyment
Presenting this casserole on a rustic wooden table creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. A serving spoon beside the dish invites guests to serve themselves, while the accompanying salad adds a touch of color.
Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked ground beef casserole sets the tone for a cozy meal that encourages sharing and enjoyment.
Deliciously Simple Baked Ground Beef Casserole
This baked ground beef casserole features layers of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce topped with melted cheese. It is savory, comforting, and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked pasta (elbow or penne)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the beef mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Top with shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g