12 Must-Try Ground Beef Casserole Recipes

These 12 recipes are not only budget-friendly but also make-ahead friendly, ensuring you have tasty leftovers to enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for the family or just for yourself, these casseroles will quickly become favorites.

Get ready to discover your next go-to dish that will make mealtime a breeze!

Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie, a traditional British dish, has gained popularity around the world for its hearty, homey flavors. Contrary to popular belief, a classic Shepherd’s Pie is made with ground lamb, but in the United States, it’s often made with ground beef, which technically makes it a Cottage Pie. This rendition is a Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie, a comforting casserole featuring a savory meat layer topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked to golden perfection.

This Ground Beef Shepherd’s Pie recipe is an easy-to-follow guide on how to create a wholesome, classic comfort dish that serves 4-6 people. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy get-together with friends. The flavors of the ingredients combine beautifully to create a dish that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup of warm milk
• 4 tablespoons of butter
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat.
3. Stir in the frozen vegetables, then sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir until evenly coated.
4. Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. While the meat mixture is cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain the potatoes and add the warm milk and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Spoon the meat mixture into a casserole dish, then spread the mashed potatoes evenly on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the beef mixture while it’s simmering.

Also, if you want a crispier potato topping, you can put the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Finally, you can prepare this dish a day ahead and bake it just before serving, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Beefy Mexican Casserole

Ground beef casserole is a wonderful comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners. It’s also a fantastic dish for busy weeknights because it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance. This recipe for Beefy Mexican Casserole adds a twist to the classic dish by incorporating traditional Mexican ingredients that create a flavorful and hearty meal.

This Beefy Mexican Casserole is a one-dish meal that’s loaded with ground beef, beans, corn, and a blend of Mexican spices. It’s topped with a layer of crunchy tortilla chips and a generous amount of melted cheese. The result is a satisfying and tasty casserole that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef
• 1 cup of diced onions
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) of corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
• 1 packet (1.25 oz) of taco seasoning
• 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 bag (13 oz) of tortilla chips
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
• Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onions over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain the excess grease.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips at the bottom. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the chips, then top with the remaining chips and shredded cheese.
5. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with sour cream on the side, if desired.

When preparing the Beefy Mexican Casserole, feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a diced jalapeno or use a hot taco seasoning.

You can also substitute the black beans with kidney beans or pinto beans. This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven, making it a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish with a side salad or your favorite Mexican sides.

Delectable Beef Lasagna

Delectable Beef Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that combines layers of pasta, beef, and cheese, all baked to perfection. This classic dish is a favorite among many families, not only for its delicious taste but also for its ability to feed a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or a potluck, this lasagna is sure to be a hit.

Making a good lasagna can seem a bit intimidating, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you get the hang of it. The key is to prepare each component – the meat sauce, the cheese mixture, and the pasta – separately before assembling the lasagna.

And remember, lasagna is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
5. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat the layers – meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella – until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of mozzarella on top.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown.

When making your Delectable Beef Lasagna, remember that the quality of the ingredients can greatly affect the taste. Use fresh herbs if possible, and choose a good quality ground beef for the best flavor.

Also, while this recipe calls for ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese if desired. Finally, let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Enjoy this comforting and delectable dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole

The Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is a hearty dish that brings together the best of two comfort food classics: ground beef and macaroni. This one-pot meal is layered with rich flavors and gooey cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser at family dinners and cozy gatherings.

The dish is also incredibly versatile, as you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it even more flavorful. Making this casserole is straightforward and requires only common ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

The process involves cooking the beef and macaroni separately before combining them with the other ingredients and baking the mixture until it’s bubbly and golden. The result is a mouthwatering casserole that’s savory, cheesy, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of lean ground beef
• 1 cup of uncooked macaroni
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
3. While the macaroni is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, green pepper, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 7-10 minutes.
4. Drain the fat from the skillet and return it to the heat. Stir in the tomato sauce, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until it’s well-coated with the sauce.
6. Pour half of the beef and macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining beef mixture and cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

When making the Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole, remember to reserve some of the pasta water after cooking the macaroni. The starchy water can be used to thin out the sauce if it’s too thick.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile. You can also add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for an extra serving of veggies. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Savory Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

The savory ground beef and rice casserole is a recipe that’s sure to make any family dinner a hit. It combines the rich, hearty flavors of ground beef with the comforting, filling texture of rice, all baked together in a delicious casserole. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for those nights when you don’t have much time but still want to serve a satisfying meal.

The recipe below will yield 4-6 servings, making it an ideal choice if you’re not cooking just for yourself. Whether you’re having friends over for dinner or simply want to have leftovers for the next day, this ground beef and rice casserole won’t disappoint.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until no pink remains.
3. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, remove the skillet from the heat and pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

When cooking this Savory Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s essential to recognize that using fresh ingredients will give the best flavor. However, you can substitute canned diced tomatoes for fresh if needed.

Also, if you’re in a hurry, you can use instant rice instead of regular rice, but the texture and flavor won’t be the same.

Also, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.

Comforting Beef and Potato Casserole

Comforting Beef and Potato Casserole is a heartwarming and filling dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe is a blend of ground beef, potatoes, and a variety of vegetables mixed with creamy, melted cheese and a rich sauce, all baked to perfection. The flavors of the beef and vegetables meld together beautifully under the heat of the oven, and the cheese topping adds a deliciously savory finish.

This casserole is a versatile dish that can easily be customized according to your preferences. You can add more vegetables, use different types of cheese, or increase the amount of sauce for a juicier dish. It’s a simple recipe to follow with ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s how to make this Comforting Beef and Potato Casserole for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Cooking instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a medium-sized casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, then drain the excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until it forms a paste, then slowly add the milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
5. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano into the sauce and stir well.
6. Combine the cooked beef and vegetables with the sauce and mix thoroughly.
7. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the greased casserole dish, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
9. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

When cooking this Comforting Beef and Potato Casserole, it’s important to cut the potatoes and carrots into small, even pieces to guarantee they cook evenly.

Also, feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking. The cheese not only gives this dish a wonderful flavor, but also helps to hold the casserole together. If you prefer your casserole to be a bit saucier, you can increase the amount of milk in the sauce.

Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish with your loved ones!

Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy your family’s craving for a warm and savory meal. This casserole combines the robust flavors of ground beef with a variety of colorful vegetables, layered with creamy sauce and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a complete meal in one dish. An ideal dinner choice for busy weeknights, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

What makes this Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole stand out is its versatility. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, making this an excellent dish to help clean out your fridge. Whether it’s sweet bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, or peas, the vegetables add a vibrant touch and a nutrition boost to the casserole.

Now, let’s get to the recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 cup peas
• 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Make sure to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, ensuring that the beef and vegetable mixture is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Extra Tips:

• For a healthier version of this casserole, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey. You can also add more vegetables of your choice.
• If you’re preparing this meal ahead of time, you can stop at step six, cover the casserole, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This is a great way to make dinner time less stressful on busy days.

Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole

The Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for those cold winter nights or family dinners. This hearty dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef and mushrooms with a decadent cream sauce, baked to perfection with a golden, crunchy topping.

It’s a casserole that’s bound to fill your home with delightful aromas and your bellies with satisfying warmth. One of the best parts about this recipe is its accessibility. The ingredients are simple and easily available. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for the kids.

This Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole serves 4-6 people, making it a perfect option for family meals or small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg ground beef
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms
• 1 medium-sized onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bread crumbs

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the pan, season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook until the beef is browned.
4. Once the beef is browned, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they’re softened.
5. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and mushroom mixture. Stir until the ingredients are evenly coated with the flour.
6. Slowly pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens.
7. Transfer the thickened meat and mushroom mixture into a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and bread crumbs on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Extra Tips: For a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk, and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Also, feel free to add in other vegetables like peas or carrots, if desired. Make sure to stir the mixture continuously when adding the flour and liquid to avoid forming lumps.

Finally, if you’re not a fan of cheddar, you can use any cheese of your preference. Just make certain it’s a type that melts well. Enjoy your Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole!

Spicy Beef and Bean Casserole

Embrace a hearty and flavorful dinner with this Spicy Beef and Bean Casserole. This recipe brings together a perfect blend of ground beef, beans, and spices that will warm you up and satisfy your hunger. The heat of the spices is perfectly balanced by the rich taste of beef and the creaminess of the beans, creating a mouthwatering dish that you and your family will love.

This dish isn’t just about the taste – it’s also about the convenience. It’s easy to prepare and requires ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ground beef. The end result is a comforting, spicy casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is tender.
4. Add the drained and rinsed black beans and kidney beans to the skillet, followed by the diced tomatoes with green chilies and tomato sauce.
5. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
6. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together.
7. Transfer the beef and bean mixture to a baking dish and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with the chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee the flavors are well incorporated, allow the beef and bean mixture to simmer for the full 10 minutes before transferring to the baking dish.

Also, while ground beef is the protein of choice for this recipe, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Finally, for those who prefer a less spicy dish, you can adjust the quantity of chili powder or choose a milder variety.

Beef and Broccoli Quinoa Casserole

Beef and Broccoli Quinoa Casserole is a hearty and healthy dish that’s every bit as comforting as traditional casseroles. It combines lean ground beef, nutritious broccoli, and protein-packed quinoa with a cheesy sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

This recipe is also a great way to incorporate more whole grains into your diet, as quinoa is a complete protein and rich in fiber. This casserole is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.

The ground beef and broccoli are cooked separately before being combined with the cooked quinoa and sauce, then everything is baked together until golden and bubbly. This dish is perfect for those looking for a meal that isn’t only delicious but also nutrient-dense and filling.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1 onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the quinoa and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
3. While the quinoa is cooking, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Transfer the beef to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, the diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent. Then, add the broccoli florets and cook until they’re bright green and just tender.
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Combine the cooked quinoa, ground beef, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce in a large baking dish. Top with the grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

Make sure to rinse the quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can make it taste bitter.

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, you can vary the vegetables according to what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would all work well in this recipe.

Rich Ground Beef and Cheese Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty ground beef casserole. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, but offers a depth of flavor that’s hard to match. This Ground Beef and Cheese Casserole is a perfect example of that. It combines lean ground beef with a variety of cheeses, and a few other ingredients, to create a dish that’s a crowd-pleaser in every sense of the word.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a gathering of friends, this is a recipe that won’t disappoint. The mix of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese gives this ground beef casserole a creamy, rich texture that stands up to the hearty beef. The addition of garlic, onions, and a hint of spice from the chili powder brings a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Best of all, this is a dish that’s easy to put together, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onions, and garlic until the beef is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the chili powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the tomato sauce to the skillet and simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream.
6. Spread half of the cheese mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with the beef mixture, then spread the remaining cheese mixture on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is lightly browned.
9. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the chopped parsley. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

When making this Ground Beef and Cheese Casserole, you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes. If you like a little more spice, feel free to add in some diced jalapenos or a bit more chili powder.

For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, and use low-fat cheeses. And while this casserole is delicious on its own, it’s also great served with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy this comforting, delicious casserole any night of the week.

Ground Beef and Zucchini Casserole

Ground beef and zucchini casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s loaded with flavors from the ground beef, zucchini, and a blend of spices, all topped with a layer of melted cheese. Not only is this casserole delicious, but it’s also a nutritious dish that can be easily incorporated into any healthy meal plan.

This recipe is quite easy to make and doesn’t require any complex cooking skills. It’s a great way to use up any extra zucchini you might’ve in your kitchen, and the combination of ground beef and zucchini makes for a filling meal. The best part about this casserole is that you can prepare it ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
4. Season the beef with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the tomato sauce to the pan and stir until the beef is well coated.
6. Layer the sliced zucchinis at the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture over the zucchini, spreading evenly.
8. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the beef.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Extra Tips:

When making this ground beef and zucchini casserole, make sure to drain the ground beef after browning to get rid of excess fat. This will prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.

Also, you can add more vegetables to this recipe if you prefer, like bell peppers or mushrooms. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.

Finally, remember to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven before serving, this allows the flavors to meld together even more.