Ground Beef Casserole
There’s something so comforting about a warm dish of Ground Beef Casserole. I remember the first time I made it; it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted to create something that would warm my family from the inside out. The aroma of baking beef, melted cheese, and rich marinara filled the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen, eager to taste what was in the oven. This dish quickly became a family favorite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet delicious. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, I can guarantee that everyone will ask for seconds.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
10 mins
25 mins
Medium
550 kcal
30 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
25 g
Saucepan, Skillet, Oven, Large Pot, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board
What Sets This Ground Beef Casserole Apart
It’s a One-Pot Wonder
When it comes to weeknight meals, simplicity is key. The beauty of Ground Beef Casserole lies in its one-pot nature. You can cook the pasta, beef, and sauce all in one dish, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. This means more time to spend with loved ones and less time scrubbing pots and pans!
Rich and Flavorful
The combination of ground beef and savory marinara creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. I love adding garlic and onions to the mix, which not only enhance the taste but also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Each bite is an explosion of deliciousness!
Cheesy Goodness
Who can say no to melted cheese? The final layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole creates a bubbly, golden crust. It’s the perfect finishing touch that makes this dish extra special. I often catch myself sneaking a spoonful before serving!
Customizable
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have at home. Want to throw in some veggies or swap the pasta? Go for it! The Ground Beef Casserole accommodates different tastes while still delivering that comforting feel.
Make Ahead and Freeze
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time, freeze it, and then bake it when you’re ready to enjoy. It’s wonderful to have a hearty meal waiting for you after a long day!
A Family Tradition
Finally, Ground Beef Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a tradition in my household. As we gather around the table, each serving brings back memories, laughter, and warmth. It’s more than just food; it’s about coming together and enjoying each other’s company.
What to Gather for Ground Beef Casserole
The magic of this dish lies in its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the warm and hearty flavor profile that defines Ground Beef Casserole. The pasta serves as a comforting base, while the ground beef adds richness and protein. With the addition of cheese and marinara, you have a symphony of flavors that come together beautifully.
- 1 pound uncooked penne noodles: These tubular noodles hold onto the sauce perfectly, making each bite delightful.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing that savory and satisfying experience.
- ⅔ cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and a depth of flavor that enhances the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an aromatic boost, making everything taste divine.
- 24 ounce jar marinara: The sauce that brings everything together with tangy, rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick that complements the other flavors.
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The golden, bubbly topping that makes this casserole irresistible.
Directions for Ground Beef Casserole
Cooking Ground Beef Casserole is as enjoyable as eating it. With simple steps, you’ll find yourself creating a delicious meal in no time. Let’s get started!
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial in achieving that perfectly baked cheese on top of your casserole.
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick, allowing for easy serving.
In a large pot, boil one pound of penne noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. You want them firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Once cooked, drain the noodles and pour them into the prepared baking dish. Spread them evenly to form a solid base for the casserole.
Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one pound of ground beef along with ⅔ cup diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.
If there’s an excess of grease, carefully remove the cooked beef and place it in a paper towel-lined bowl to absorb the excess.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This will enhance the aroma and flavor.
Add the marinara, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper to the skillet. Let this simmer for a few minutes until heated through, and adjust seasoning to your preference.
If you removed any grease from the skillet, add the ground beef back in at this stage.
Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the cooked penne noodles in the baking dish and stir well to combine.
Evenly cover the top with 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This will be the delicious, cheesy topping that everyone loves!
Bake in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you want an extra crispy top, broil it for the last minute.
Serve the casserole warm, topping it with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- The choice of pasta is crucial; penne is great because it holds sauces well.
- Cooking the ground beef until no longer pink is essential to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Using a nonstick baking dish helps prevent sticking, which can be a hassle.
- Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
Recipe Tips about Ground Beef Casserole
Making the perfect Ground Beef Casserole is all about the little details. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil, and when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Pairing: This casserole goes well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Variations: Feel free to add in veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Ground Beef Casserole
When serving Ground Beef Casserole, consider these ideas to complement your meal:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds a crunchy texture and is great for soaking up any sauce.
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the casserole perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans are excellent choices to add color and nutrition.
- Occasional Treat: This casserole is ideal for cozy family dinners, celebrations, or even potlucks.
- Seasonal Serving: Serve it during colder months when you need that extra warmth and comfort.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Ground Beef Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to any family meal. Not only is it delicious and easy to prepare, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. I encourage you to try this recipe soon! Your family will love it, and I guarantee it will become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial in achieving that perfectly baked cheese on top of your casserole.
- Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick, allowing for easy serving.
- In a large pot, boil one pound of penne noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. You want them firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Once cooked, drain the noodles and pour them into the prepared baking dish. Spread them evenly to form a solid base for the casserole.
- Next, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one pound of ground beef along with ⅔ cup diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- If there’s an excess of grease, carefully remove the cooked beef and place it in a paper towel-lined bowl to absorb the excess.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This will enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Add the marinara, Kosher salt, and ground black pepper to the skillet. Let this simmer for a few minutes until heated through, and adjust seasoning to your preference.
- If you removed any grease from the skillet, add the ground beef back in at this stage.
- Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the cooked penne noodles in the baking dish and stir well to combine.
- Evenly cover the top with 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This will be the delicious, cheesy topping that everyone loves!
- Bake in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you want an extra crispy top, broil it for the last minute.
- Serve the casserole warm, topping it with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!
