How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Perfect for Family Dinners

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings the whole family together. If you’re like me and love easy pasta recipes that are both hearty and satisfying, then this Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is just what you need for your next family dinner! With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-dish meal that combines protein, carbs, and veggies.
• Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for 30-minute meals.
• Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness!
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Versatile—add your favorite veggies or spices!

Ingredients

To make this delightful Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Parsley (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering casserole:

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions, ensuring it’s al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles.
4. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef, sautéing until the vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
5. Drain any excess fat from the meat and vegetable mixture to keep it from being too greasy.
6. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, seasoning with Italian herbs. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to develop rich flavors.
7. Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture, gently folding to distribute the ingredients evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it uniformly.
9. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese across the top, covering the entire surface.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and the edges turn golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to add in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
• If you want a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
• For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
• Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner table by serving it with:

• A fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Steamed vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side.

For more delicious ideas, check out my Ground Beef Stroganoff or Beef with Broccoli recipes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. If you want to freeze it, assemble the casserole without baking, cover it well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

So, whether you’re looking for quick family dinners or a comforting dish to share with friends, this Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is sure to become a favorite. It’s a delightful addition to your collection of Ground Beef Casserole Recipes and a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!