Ground Beef Casserole

Introduction

Few dishes are as satisfying and versatile as a hearty ground beef casserole. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, bringing together savory flavors, creamy textures, and a perfectly golden top layer of melted cheese. Whether you’re feeding a large family, cooking for a potluck, or simply looking for a budget-friendly dinner idea, this ground beef casserole is a recipe that always delivers. With minimal prep time, wholesome ingredients, and a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults, it’s a true crowd-pleaser.

My recipe story

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. I first learned to make a version of this casserole when I was a college student trying to stretch my grocery budget while still craving the flavors of home-cooked meals. Over the years, I’ve refined it with better seasoning, fresh vegetables, and the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy goodness. It’s become my go-to dish whenever I want to serve something cozy and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Friends and family now request it regularly for gatherings, and it never fails to spark warm conversations around the table.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of a ground beef casserole is its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, which makes it an easy choice for a last-minute dinner idea. At the heart of the dish is ground beef, which provides the savory, meaty flavor that makes casseroles so comforting. I recommend using lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, though a little fat does contribute flavor.

Beyond the beef, the dish features onions, garlic, and simple seasonings that create a rich base. A creamy component, such as sour cream or cream of mushroom soup, adds depth and ensures every bite is velvety smooth. Pasta or potatoes serve as the carb foundation, soaking up all the flavors. And of course, cheese—preferably a sharp cheddar or a blend—melts on top to form a golden, bubbly crust that ties the entire dish together.

You can also include vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or green beans for added nutrition. These not only boost the health factor but also introduce fresh flavors and textures to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Prepare the beef mixture. Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbly, which should take about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent your casserole from becoming greasy. Stir in chopped onions, garlic, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft and aromatic. This base ensures your casserole is flavorful from the very first bite.

Step 2: Add the creamy element. Once your beef mixture is ready, stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, or cream cheese, depending on your preference. This step transforms the beef into a creamy, rich filling. If you’d like, you can also add in frozen peas, corn, or green beans at this stage for color and texture. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the base. Most ground beef casseroles use pasta or potatoes as the foundation. If using pasta, cook it until just al dente according to package instructions. If opting for thinly sliced potatoes, par-cook them in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Layer your base evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a sturdy layer that will support the creamy beef mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole. Pour the beef mixture over the pasta or potatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top. For best results, use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, which provides both sharp flavor and gooey meltability. If you enjoy a crispy topping, consider adding a light sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a little melted butter.

Step 5: Bake to perfection. Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Allow the casserole to cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving, which helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Variations & substitutions

This casserole is endlessly customizable. Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor. Swap out cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or a homemade béchamel sauce if you prefer fresher ingredients. Vegetables can vary too—spinach, zucchini, or carrots all work well. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Gluten-free eaters can use rice or gluten-free pasta, while low-carb enthusiasts might opt for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as the base.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This ground beef casserole stores beautifully, making it a lifesaver for meal prep. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through. You can also assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.

Serving ideas & pairings

This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, but pairing it with light, fresh sides helps balance the richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a classic companion. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up the creamy sauce. Steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed green beans add a nutritious element. For drinks, serve with iced tea, a light lager, or a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar gives the strongest flavor, but mozzarella adds great meltability. A blend of the two is perfect.

Can I make it without cream soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute with a homemade white sauce or use cream cheese and a splash of milk for creaminess.

How do I prevent a soggy casserole?
Make sure to drain your beef well, use al dente pasta, and avoid too much liquid in the filling.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, most kids love the creamy, cheesy texture. You can also sneak in extra veggies finely chopped for added nutrition.

Final thoughts

This ground beef casserole is the definition of comfort food done right. It’s simple, flavorful, and adaptable, making it a staple recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight, bring it to a potluck, or prepare it ahead for freezer meals, it delivers every time. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become one of your family’s most requested dinners.

Ground Beef Casserole

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A hearty and comforting casserole made with seasoned ground beef, pasta or potatoes, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

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Ingredients

• 1 ½ to 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cups cooked pasta or parboiled potato slices

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup frozen peas or green beans (optional)

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional topping)
  

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
3. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika; cook 3–4 minutes until onions soften.

4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and optional vegetables; simmer 2–3 minutes.

5. Layer cooked pasta or potatoes in the baking dish, then spread beef mixture evenly on top.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole and add breadcrumbs if desired.

7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

 For extra flavor, mix cheddar with mozzarella. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve with salad or garlic bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American