Ground Beef Casserole

Ground Beef Casserole 🍲🍖

This Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—layers of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and creamy goodness, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or potluck gatherings. With endless variations, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious!

Let’s dive into how to make this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Dish Wonder : Minimal cleanup with all the flavors melding together beautifully.
2. Customizable : Add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or seasonings to suit your taste.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy days.
4. Crowd-Pleasing : A guaranteed hit at family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
5. Versatile : Perfect for using up leftover ingredients in your fridge or pantry.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option )
• 1 medium onion , diced
• 1 bell pepper , diced (any color works )
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for variety )
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese , divided
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc. )
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option )
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Crushed potato chips (for crunch )
• French-fried onions (classic green bean casserole-style topping )

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef , breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink.
2. Add the diced onion , bell pepper , and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes , or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup , sour cream , ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese , and frozen mixed vegetables . Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the cooked egg noodles (or alternative base ), ensuring everything is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Top and Bake

1. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
   • Optional : Add crushed potato chips or French-fried onions for extra texture.
2. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy warm as a main dish, paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Fresh garlic and onions provide brighter, more vibrant flavors than pre-minced alternatives.
2. Swap Proteins : Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variety.
3. Add More Veggies : Stir in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked portions of the casserole (without toppings) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding fresh toppings before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Ground Beef Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Green Salad : A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables : Serve with broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
• Garlic Bread : Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or soda for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~320 kcal
• Protein : ~18g
• Carbohydrates : ~20g
• Fat : ~20g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something indulgent yet easy to make, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese creates a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to love.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, add toppings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your skillet, toss in those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.