why make this recipe
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting and tasty dish that brings the family together. It combines hearty ingredients like ground beef and pasta with a creamy, cheesy topping. This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It offers a great way to use leftover pasta and vegetables, making it a flexible option for any busy cook. Plus, everyone loves cheese!
how to make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni or penne)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, bell peppers)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mixed vegetables, cooked beef, marinara sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, on top for extra flavor and color.
how to store Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
- Feel free to mix and match the vegetables to your liking.
- For extra flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different types of cheese if you prefer, like pepper jack or feta.
- Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
variation
You can make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also swap marinara sauce for creamy alfredo sauce for a different twist. Adding some chopped spinach or kale can boost the nutrition in this dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen mixed vegetables in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.
2. How long does the casserole need to bake?
The casserole needs to bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just bake it as directed.
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Meat
Description
A comforting and tasty dish that combines hearty ground beef, pasta, and a creamy, cheesy topping, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni or penne)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn, bell peppers)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, mixed vegetables, cooked beef, marinara sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to mix and match the vegetables. For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes. Make sure to cook pasta until al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
