Ground Beef Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This hearty ground beef casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's easy to prepare and sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:45:40.361Z

This ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food that combines ground beef, creamy sauce, and hearty vegetables, topped with a crispy layer of cheese. It's a dish that not only warms the belly but also brings family together around the dinner table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavor profile that satisfies cravings
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices

      

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It's an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle building and repair. Additionally, it provides important vitamins and minerals, such as iron and zinc, which support overall health and immune function. By incorporating vegetables into this casserole, you boost its nutritional profile, adding fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants to your meal.

This ground beef casserole is a balanced meal that can help you feel full and satisfied without compromising your dietary goals. The combination of protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the pasta, and the diverse nutrients from the vegetables creates a wholesome dish that can fuel your day. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in those veggies for picky eaters!

Customization Options

One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a healthier homemade version or a different cream soup, such as chicken or vegetable.

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix! Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach can enhance the flavor and add additional nutrients. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make this dish your own!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This ground beef casserole is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can prepare a large batch and portion it out for the week, saving you time and effort on busy days. Just store the individual servings in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven for a comforting meal.

Additionally, this casserole freezes well, making it a great option for future meals. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat until hot. This way, you can always have a hearty meal on hand!

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or rotini)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation process.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.

Mix Ingredients

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, frozen mixed vegetables, cooked pasta, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious ground beef casserole!

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your ground beef casserole with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast that balances the rich flavors of the dish. A simple vinaigrette can brighten up the meal and add a touch of acidity that complements the savory casserole beautifully.

For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it with garlic bread or crusty rolls. The warm bread is perfect for scooping up the cheesy casserole and adds a delightful crunch to the meal. A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon can elevate the dining experience even further.

Storage Tips

To keep your ground beef casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to spoilage.

If you decide to freeze your casserole, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures that the casserole retains its flavor and texture.

Common Questions

If you have any questions about this recipe, one common inquiry is whether you can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can add a wonderful flavor and texture, but be sure to sauté them slightly before mixing them into the casserole to ensure they cook properly during baking.

Another frequent question is about making it gluten-free. You can easily replace the pasta with gluten-free noodles or even use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as these alternatives may require adjustments to achieve the desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How do I reheat the casserole?

To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.