How to Make a Delicious Simple Ground Beef Casserole in 30 Minutes

Are you looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Well, you’re in for a treat! This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights, this dish combines ground beef, cheese, and pasta into a creamy, cheesy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Deliciously creamy and cheesy, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile ingredients that you can easily swap based on what you have on hand.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinner ideas.
• A comforting dish that brings the family together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni, penne, or white/brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces / 227 grams) tomato sauce
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream

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

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Ground Beef Casserole:

1. Warm the oven to 350°F, preparing a 9×13 baking dish with a light grease coating.
2. Heat a skillet over medium temperature, combining ground beef, finely chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook thoroughly until the beef turns completely brown, carefully draining accumulated fat.
3. Introduce tomato sauce and sour cream into the skillet. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, allowing the mixture to gently simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
4. Fold cooked pasta into the savory beef mixture, ensuring uniform distribution of ingredients throughout the pan.
5. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly to create a consistent layer.
6. Generously blanket the top with shredded cheddar cheese, creating complete coverage across the casserole surface.
7. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the cheese transforms into a melted, golden, and slightly bubbling layer.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

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

• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms or spinach, for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder or some diced jalapeños.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or even cream cheese.
• Make sure to drain the canned tomatoes well to avoid excess moisture in your casserole.
• For a fun twist, try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack!

How to Serve

This Easy Cheesy casserole is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with some delicious sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Pair it with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with garlic bread for a comforting, hearty meal.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
• For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep! Here’s how to make it ahead of time:

• Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• To freeze, prepare the casserole and cover it well with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

And there you have it! A Ground Beef Casserole that’s not only quick and easy but also a delightful addition to your collection of Beef Casserole Dishes. If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out my Ground Beef Stroganoff or try a flavorful Beef Stir Fry for another quick family dinner. And if you’re in the mood for something different, don’t miss my Cattle Drive Casserole! Happy cooking!