Are you looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners? This simple ground beef casserole recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Packed with rich flavors, filling ingredients, and ready in no time, this casserole is an ideal option for busy nights. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers mouthwatering results every time. Read on to discover how you can make this tasty dish, along with tips for variations and presentation. You won't want to miss this ultimate comfort food!

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

A ground beef casserole is a one-dish meal made primarily of browned ground beef, vegetables, cheese, and a starch such as potatoes, pasta, or rice. It’s baked together in the oven to create a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The best part about casseroles is their versatility—there’s room to get creative with different ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences. With this recipe, you’ll have the foundation for a simple yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – The star of the dish. You can opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor of the casserole.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor with a slight pungency.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.) – Adds color and nutrition.
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – The creamy base that ties all the ingredients together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds richness and a gooey texture.
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini) – Provides structure and makes the casserole filling.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For added flavor and aroma.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the casserole.
½ cup breadcrumbs – Optional topping to add crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the beauties of a ground beef casserole is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have in your pantry or dietary preferences. Here are a few substitution ideas:

Ground turkey or chicken: For a leaner option, replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Vegetarian version: Skip the meat entirely and use plant-based ground beef or more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils.
Different cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of different cheeses.
Rice or potatoes: Replace the pasta with cooked rice, quinoa, or sliced potatoes for a different base.
Sauce alternatives: Try using cream of chicken soup or cream of celery instead of mushroom for a new twist on flavor.
Add spice: Stir in some red pepper flakes, paprika, or even jalapenos for a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your ground beef casserole from scratch:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks (about 7-10 minutes). Drain off any excess fat.
Sauté onions and garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the frozen vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
Mix in the soup: Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly coated.
Combine with pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the ground beef mixture. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the entire mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Add breadcrumbs (optional): If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade ground beef casserole!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta until just al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy once baked in the casserole.
Skipping the draining step: Always drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning. Too much grease will make the casserole greasy and heavy.
Not seasoning enough: Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings before baking. Under-seasoning can make the casserole bland.
Using raw vegetables: If you use raw vegetables instead of frozen, make sure to cook them briefly before mixing them into the casserole. Otherwise, they may not soften properly in the oven.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While a ground beef casserole is a simple dish, you can elevate it with thoughtful presentation and side dishes. Here’s how to serve and present it beautifully:

Serve hot: Casseroles are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. Let it cool slightly, but don’t wait too long or the cheese will harden.
Side dishes: Serve the casserole with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make great accompaniments.
Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is an all-in-one dish that contains protein, starch, and vegetables, making it a complete meal. However, you can enhance the experience with some thoughtful pairings:

Fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the casserole.
Steamed or roasted vegetables: Light, healthy sides like roasted broccoli or steamed green beans complement the hearty casserole without overwhelming it.
Crusty bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread, or a loaf of crusty artisan bread to soak up the creamy sauce from the casserole.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

Individual portions: Instead of serving directly from the baking dish, plate individual portions for each guest with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Skillet serving: If you used a cast-iron skillet for browning the meat, you can bake the casserole directly in the skillet and serve it family-style for a rustic presentation.
Layered look: Try layering the pasta, meat, and cheese in the baking dish to give the casserole a visually appealing layered look when sliced.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Make-ahead option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Simply bake, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Adjust the servings: This recipe makes enough for about 6 servings. If you’re cooking for fewer people, you can halve the recipe or make the full amount and save leftovers for later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes! Just be sure to sauté the vegetables for a few minutes before adding them to the casserole to ensure they cook through properly.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Just use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free condensed soup to make this recipe gluten-free.

Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q: How long will leftovers keep?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a tried-and-true recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings. With its hearty combination of beef, pasta, vegetables, and cheese, it's a comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy. Plus, with the versatility to adapt it to your preferences, it’s a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the oven or enjoying leftovers the next day, this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Try it out today and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors in every bite!