Introduction
This Ground Beef Casserole is classic comfort food made with seasoned beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. The best part? You can prepare it ahead and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 oz pasta (penne, elbow, or rotini)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Brown ground beef with onion until no longer pink. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Add sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer 10 minutes.
- Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sour cream, and half of the cheese. Add beef mixture and stir until combined.
- Assemble casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread mixture evenly, then sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley or basil. Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Tips & Variations
- Add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or provolone for different flavors.
- Make it ahead: assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Enjoy !!
