Ground Beef Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ (Easy)
Cuisine: American
Course: Main | Casserole

 What Is a Ground Beef Casserole?

This Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It combines tender pasta, flavorful seasoned ground beef, a creamy tomato-based sauce, and gooey layers of cheese — all baked to golden perfection. It’s a go-to dinner option that feeds a crowd, pleases picky eaters, and reheats like a dream.

Unlike complicated lasagnas or multi-step bakes, this casserole keeps it simple. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, potluck, or prepping ahead, this dish delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal fuss.

 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or egg noodles)

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

• 1 cup frozen or fresh spinach

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• ½ cup bell peppers, diced

• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

 Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Medium pot (for boiling pasta)

• Mixing spoon or spatula

• Cheese grater (optional)

 Time Breakdown

 Step-by-Step Instructions

 Cook the Pasta

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add pasta and cook 1–2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish cooking in the oven).

• Drain and set aside.

 Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add diced onion and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.

• Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

• Stir in ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until no longer pink.

• Drain excess grease if needed.

 Make the Sauce

• Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste to the beef.

• Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.

• Turn off heat and stir in sour cream to make the sauce creamy and rich.

 Want a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.

 Assemble the Casserole

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• In a large mixing bowl (or directly in the pot if large enough), combine cooked pasta and beef sauce. Mix well.

• Pour half the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Sprinkle with half the cheddar and mozzarella.

• Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.

 Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and herbs before baking for extra flavor.

 Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

• Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to set up.

 Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

• Serve hot with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

 What to Serve With Ground Beef Casserole

 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerator:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

• Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F covered with foil until heated through.

Make Ahead:

• Assemble the casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

Varies based on pasta and cheese used.