Introduction
This Ground Beef Casserole is a classic, hearty comfort meal that comes together with simple ingredients and delivers satisfying flavor in every bite. It layers seasoned beef, tender pasta or potatoes, a savory sauce, and melted cheese to create a warm, filling dish perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
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Ingredients
Base Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce or 1 1/2 cups marinara
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells) or 2 cups diced cooked potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Add-ins
1 cup corn or peas
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 bell pepper, diced
Red pepper flakes
Sour cream or ricotta for creaminess
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Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions, or set aside pre-cooked potatoes.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until softened.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
5. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
6. Add diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
7. Stir in cooked pasta or potatoes and mix until coated.
8. Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish.
9. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top.
10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
11. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Description
This casserole is rich, savory, and satisfying. The ground beef mixture becomes thick and flavorful as it simmers with tomatoes and spices. The pasta or potatoes soak up the sauce, and the melted cheese on top adds a gooey, golden finish. It is a complete meal in one dish, easy to customize and comforting in every serving.
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Tips
Drain beef well to prevent excess grease in the casserole.
Cook pasta slightly under al dente so it doesn’t become too soft while baking.
Add a layer of cheese in the middle for extra richness.
For a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes before assembling.
Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and slice neatly.
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Variations
Creamy Version: Stir in half a cup of sour cream or ricotta before baking.
Mexican Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with pepper jack cheese.
Loaded Vegetable: Add zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or carrots.
Low-Carb: Replace pasta with cauliflower florets.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper.
Tater Tot Topping: Replace cheese topping with frozen tater tots, then cheese during last 5 minutes.
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Correction
If the casserole turns out too dry, add more tomato sauce or a splash of broth before baking.
If it becomes watery, simmer the beef mixture longer to reduce moisture.
If the flavor seems flat, increase salt or Worcestershire sauce, or add an extra pinch of Italian seasoning.
If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.
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Enjoy
Serve your Ground Beef Casserole warm and melty straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. Enjoy a hearty, homemade dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.