Ground beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a simple yet hearty meal that brings the family together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even meal prep, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and can easily be customized to suit individual tastes. In this article, we will guide you through the entire process of making a delicious ground beef casserole, including ingredients, substitutions, and pro tips to help you perfect your dish. Ready to learn how to make a mouth-watering ground beef casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive right in!

What is Ground Beef Casserole?
Ground beef casserole is a baked dish that typically combines seasoned ground beef with vegetables, starches like pasta or rice, and a creamy or cheesy sauce. These ingredients are layered or mixed together in a baking dish and baked until bubbling and golden. This one-dish meal is known for being filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for home cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole
Here’s a list of ingredients that are typically used for a classic ground beef casserole. You can adjust these depending on your preferences or dietary needs:
- 1 lb ground beef – The star of the dish! You can use lean or regular ground beef, depending on your preference.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and a slight bite.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Provides moisture and a fresh taste.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Thickens the casserole and gives it a tomato-rich base.
- 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne) – Adds bulk and texture.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn) – Makes it a complete meal with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that cheesy goodness!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor with a mix of herbs.
- Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – If you like a little heat.
Optional Ingredients
- Sour cream or cream cheese – For added creaminess.
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs – To create a crispy topping.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro – For garnish.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about a ground beef casserole is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences or make use of ingredients you already have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Meat Substitutes: If you don’t eat beef, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, use a meatless ground beef substitute or cooked lentils.
- Cheese: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Alternatives: If you're looking for a low-carb option, try using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
- Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh vegetables instead of frozen. Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini make great additions.
- Sauce Variations: If you want a richer sauce, add a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup. For a spicy kick, stir in some hot sauce or diced green chiles.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's walk through the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and delicious ground beef casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt and then the pasta. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 7–9 minutes for al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Sauce
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese into the mixture. The cheese will melt and help bind everything together, adding a creamy texture.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are slightly crispy.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to slice.
How to Cook Ground Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking ground beef casserole is all about layering flavors and textures. You want the pasta to be perfectly cooked, the beef to be seasoned just right, and the cheese to melt into a creamy, savory topping. Here’s a quick recap of the steps:
- Cook the pasta until just tender, then set aside.
- Brown the ground beef, ensuring you drain any excess fat.
- Sauté onions and garlic with the beef for added flavor.
- Add tomatoes and sauce to create a flavorful base.
- Mix everything together—pasta, beef, veggies, and cheese.
- Assemble the casserole, topping it with extra cheese.
- Bake to perfection, until golden and bubbly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a ground beef casserole is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: If you overcook the pasta, it may become mushy after baking. Aim for al dente (slightly firm).
- Using too much fat: Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Not seasoning properly: Be generous with your seasonings, especially salt and pepper. Taste as you go to make sure the flavors are balanced.
- Forgetting the cheese topping: The melted cheese on top is what makes this dish truly comforting. Don’t skip it!
- Skipping the cool-down: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This will make it easier to serve and allow the flavors to settle.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground beef casserole is a rustic, homestyle dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t present it beautifully. Here are a few tips to elevate your presentation:
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole
- Serve the casserole in large, hearty portions, scooping it straight from the baking dish.
- Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Offer crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole
- Garnish the top with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
- Add a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the plate for a gourmet touch.
- Serve in individual ramekins for a personalized, elegant presentation, especially if you’re hosting a dinner party.
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips
- Make it ahead: Ground beef casserole is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Freezing: This casserole also freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Double the recipe: If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two smaller dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make ground beef casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in the oven.
Can I freeze ground beef casserole?
Absolutely. It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking, but you can also freeze leftovers. Be sure to wrap it well and label it with the date.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini work well. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before adding them to the casserole.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for ground beef.
Conclusion
Ground beef casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. With its combination of savory ground beef, tender pasta, vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s highly customizable—whether you prefer different meats, cheeses, or veggies, this recipe is flexible enough to adapt to your tastes. So why not try it out tonight? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that will warm your heart and your belly. Happy cooking!
PrintGround Beef Casserole Recipe
A delicious ground beef casserole made with tender pasta, melted cheese, and tomatoes. It's a simple, satisfying dish for weeknight dinners. This recipe highlights ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for a family-friendly meal. Quick to make with pantry staples.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or similar)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix the cooked pasta into the beef mixture and combine well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella or any favorite cheese.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about ⅙ of the casserole)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
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