Description
Warm, cheesy, and full of hearty flavor, this Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Layers of savory beef, melted cheese, and tender veggies come together for the ultimate family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups cooked pasta or cooked rice (optional, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Add the vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
Step 4: Mix in seasonings: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Combine the creamy layer: In a medium bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Add this mixture to the skillet with the beef and veggies. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 6: Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta (if using) or spread the beef mixture directly on the bottom. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining beef mixture, then top with the rest of the cheese.
Step 7: Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 8: Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra diced peppers or fresh parsley for color, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef Casserole is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep and cooking time. It’s also highly customizable – you can easily swap out the veggies, add different cheeses, or include pasta or rice to suit your preferences. Most importantly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you need a hearty and satisfying dish. Plus, leftovers taste just as amazing, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad.
- A slice of garlic bread complements the casserole perfectly.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- To save time, use pre-shredded cheese or buy pre-chopped vegetables.
- If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery or cream of chicken soup can be used as a substitute.
- To prevent the cheese from burning, you can tent the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground sausage.
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
25 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories:
Approximately 400-450 per serving
Protein:
Approximately 30-35g per serving
Sodium:
Approximately 600-700mg per serving
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Casserole recipe is a simple, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole is sure to please. With its hearty layers of savory beef, melted cheese, and tender veggies, it’s a comforting classic that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q3: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor.
Q4: Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
A: Definitely! Adding extra vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn can enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the casserole.
Q5: Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or use a combination of lentils and chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
