This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a cheesy topping, it’s an easy and versatile dish perfect for family dinners. Customize with pasta or rice for a complete, hearty meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Makes: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- ½ cup cooked pasta or rice (optional for layering)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Aromatics and Veggies:
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Add the corn kernels and mix well.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- If using, spread the cooked pasta or rice evenly at the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the pasta or rice.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for added comfort.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for extra texture.
- Enjoy with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for a wholesome side.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef mixture.
- Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- If using pasta or rice, ensure it’s cooked al dente or slightly firm before layering.
- Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan for a richer topping.
Nutritional Benefits
- Ground beef provides protein and iron.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C.
- A versatile recipe that incorporates vegetables and protein in one dish.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy and gluten (from pasta or breadcrumbs).
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or rice.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Storage
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- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A quick and hearty meal for busy weeknights.
- Packed with bold flavors and gooey cheese.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or protein.
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is a simple and satisfying dish that combines the best of comfort food in one pan. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it up tonight and enjoy the smiles around the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen corn?
Yes, frozen corn works perfectly. No need to thaw—add it directly to the skillet. - What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great additions. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve. - What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work well. - How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Simmer the tomato sauce mixture until it thickens before assembling. - Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, chop about 4 medium tomatoes and cook them down to make a sauce. - Can I make this dish spicy?
Add extra chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick. - What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
A mix of cheddar and mozzarella gives a perfect melt and flavor. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze it baked or unbaked in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - How do I serve leftovers?
Reheat and serve with fresh sides like salad or roasted veggies to refresh the meal.