Ground beef casseroles are a timeless comfort food that can be whipped up with minimal effort, making them a favorite among home cooks. This versatile dish combines ground beef with pasta, cheese, and vegetables for a hearty and flavorful meal that will satisfy the entire family. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to meal prep for the week, this Simple Ground Beef Casserole recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Read on to discover how you can make this easy and delicious casserole, with step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations that will help you perfect the dish!

What is a "Ground Beef Casserole"?
A ground beef casserole is a baked dish that typically includes ground beef as the main protein, combined with a starch (like pasta or potatoes), vegetables, and a sauce—often topped with cheese or breadcrumbs. The beauty of a casserole is its versatility. You can add or subtract ingredients based on what's available in your pantry, and you can make it as simple or as elaborate as you like. Ground beef casseroles are loved for their simplicity and the fact that they can be made in large quantities, perfect for family meals or leftovers.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole
Before diving into the cooking process, let's go over the essential ingredients for a basic ground beef casserole. These ingredients will form the base of the recipe, and you can customize it with your favorite seasonings and add-ins.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
These are the foundational ingredients for this casserole recipe, but don’t be afraid to adjust the amounts or include additional items to suit your taste.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole Variations
Ground beef casseroles are incredibly versatile, and you can easily modify the recipe to cater to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some optional ingredients and variations you can incorporate into your dish:
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan.
- Swap pasta for rice or potatoes for a heartier twist.
- Incorporate additional seasonings like paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Use a low-carb option by swapping pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
By tweaking these ingredients, you can keep this dish fresh and exciting every time you make it!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about ground beef casseroles is that they are incredibly flexible. You can modify the recipe to suit your tastes, dietary restrictions, or simply what you have on hand. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:
- Meat Substitutes: If you want a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. For a different flavor profile, you can also use ground sausage or a combination of meats.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and replace it with lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also add a lot more vegetables to make it a hearty, veggie-forward dish.
- Pasta Alternatives: While traditional casseroles use pasta, you can swap this out for rice, quinoa, or even roasted sweet potatoes. For those on a low-carb or keto diet, cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles are great alternatives.
- Different Cheese Varieties: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to experiment with cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even cream cheese for added richness.
- Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, or skip the breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative for a gluten-free casserole.
Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients—this recipe is meant to be flexible!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process for making this easy ground beef casserole.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or nonstick spray.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, sour cream, and half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the top needs more browning, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, and garnish with chopped parsley.
How to Cook Ground Beef Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a ground beef casserole is simple if you follow the above instructions carefully. Here’s a quick breakdown of the process:
- Prepare the pasta while you brown the beef and onions to save time.
- Layer flavors by seasoning your beef and incorporating the tomato sauce for richness.
- Mix your ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and cheese.
- Bake until bubbly and don’t skip the broil if you like a golden, crisp top.
Keep in mind, the key to a successful casserole is balancing the flavors and making sure everything is cooked just right. Follow the steps, and you'll have a delicious dish in no time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is quite forgiving, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making a ground beef casserole:
- Overcooking the pasta: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when baked in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the final dish.
- Not draining excess grease: If you don’t drain the grease after browning the ground beef, your casserole may end up too greasy, affecting both the texture and flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning: Be sure to season your beef mixture well. The casserole relies on a good balance of spices to prevent it from tasting bland.
- Not letting it rest: After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to slice.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground beef casserole is a homey dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look great on the table. Here are some simple tips to enhance the presentation:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in individual portions: You can bake the casserole in smaller ramekins for individual servings. This not only makes it easier to serve but adds a touch of elegance.
- Accompany with sides: Pair your casserole with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread to round out the meal.
How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole
Ground beef casserole is best served hot, right out of the oven. You can pair it with:
- A light green salad for freshness
- Roasted vegetables for extra nutrition
- A side of garlic bread for a bit of indulgence
- A glass of red wine or iced tea to complement the meal
It’s also a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings because it serves a crowd and is easy to transport.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole
Want to elevate the presentation of your ground beef casserole? Try these ideas:
- Layered Casserole Dish: Use a clear, glass baking dish so you can see the layers of pasta, meat, and cheese.
- Cast Iron Skillet: Cook and bake the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, cozy feel.
- Breadcrumb Crust: Finish the casserole with golden breadcrumbs for a beautiful, crispy topping.
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips
To get the most out of your ground beef casserole, keep these additional tips in mind:
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Prepare it as directed, but don’t bake. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like, from penne to fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking it. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and label it with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version of this casserole.
Conclusion
This simple ground beef casserole recipe is a perfect meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. With its cheesy, meaty layers and endless variations, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own! Enjoy!
PrintSimple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
This Simple Ground Beef Casserole recipe is an easy, delicious dinner featuring ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a quick and hearty casserole perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. With just a few pantry ingredients, this flavorful dish is ready in no time, offering a satisfying, comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Pasta (elbow or penne)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Tomato sauce
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased baking dish, layer pasta, beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Use any pasta or cheese blend you have on hand.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
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