Easy Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Perfect for Families

Looking for a ground beef casserole recipe that’s comforting and joyful? You’ve found it! This budget-friendly meal is simple yet full of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Family dinners can be tough when time is tight and everyone’s hungry. Our ground beef casserole recipe is here to help. It’s a hearty, tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. It’s easy to make and turns simple ingredients into a special meal.

This casserole is more than just dinner—it’s a warm hug in a dish. Families all over the U.S. have made it a staple. It makes any weeknight feel like a special occasion, all while saving money.

Ready to make your family dinners better? Let’s explore this delicious ground beef casserole recipe. It’s all about simplicity, flavor, and comfort in every bite.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Making a tasty ground beef casserole is easy. This guide will show you how to make a meal your family will enjoy. We’ll cover choosing the right ingredients and tools, so you can cook with confidence.

Essential Ingredients and Substitutions

Choosing the right ingredients is key for a great dish. Here’s what you need:

  • Ground beef: Pick lean ground beef for a healthier choice
  • Pasta or rice: Swap with gluten-free options if you need to
  • Cheese: Use dairy-free cheese if you prefer
  • Vegetables: Pick your favorites to add to the mix

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having your tools ready makes cooking easier. You’ll need:

  1. 9×13 inch baking dish
  2. Large skillet
  3. Mixing bowls
  4. Measuring cups and spoons
  5. Wooden spoon or spatula

Preparation Time and Serving Size

Knowing prep time and serving size helps plan your meal. This casserole takes:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total time: About 1 hour
  • Serving size: 6-8 people

Follow these tips to make a delicious casserole that’s good for your family.

Recipe card

Making a tasty ground beef casserole is easy. This recipe card will help you cook a hearty meal your family will enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife

Ingredient List

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cups shredded cheese
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups prepared pasta or rice

Ground Beef Casserole Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
  2. Brown ground beef in skillet, drain excess fat
  3. Mix beef with remaining ingredients in large bowl
  4. Transfer mixture to greased baking dish
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly
  6. Let rest 10 minutes before serving

Follow these steps for a perfect ground beef casserole. The recipe card makes cooking simple and fun.

“Cooking is about passion, so take your time and enjoy the process!” – Professional Chef

Tips for Making the Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

Making a delicious ground beef casserole is more than just following a recipe. It’s about using professional cooking techniques. These can turn an ordinary dish into something truly special that will wow your family and friends.

Choosing high-quality ground beef is key. Look for meat with a fat content around 80/20. This balance gives rich flavor and keeps the dish moist while it bakes.

  • Choose fresh ground beef from a trusted butcher or grocery store
  • Drain excess fat after browning to prevent a greasy texture
  • Season the meat generously with herbs and spices

Adding flavor enhancements can make your casserole stand out. Try different seasonings like smoked paprika, dried herbs, or a bit of Worcestershire sauce. These can add depth and complexity to your dish.

  • Incorporate fresh garlic and onions for aromatic richness
  • Try adding different cheese varieties for unique taste profiles
  • Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor

For the perfect texture, let the casserole rest after baking. This allows the ingredients to settle and makes serving easier. You can also prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it to let the flavors meld.

Pro tip: Always let your casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven to achieve the best consistency and flavor integration.

With these tips, you’ll make a ground beef casserole that will be a hit with your family.

Conclusion

This ground beef casserole is a great choice for busy families. It’s easy to make and fills everyone up. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

The recipe is easy to adjust to fit your family’s taste. It’s a great way to use what you already have at home. Plus, it’s affordable and delicious.

We suggest adding your own twist to the recipe. Make it your own and share your story. Every family has its own way of enjoying comfort food.

Try this recipe and see why it’s a favorite for families. Your home will smell amazing, making everyone happy.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute. It’s leaner but still gives a delicious flavor and texture. Choose ground turkey with some fat to keep it moist and tasty.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, swap out pasta or breadcrumbs for gluten-free options. Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for thickeners. Make sure all ingredients, like cream of mushroom soup, are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready, adding 10-15 minutes if it’s cold.

What sides go well with this ground beef casserole?

It goes well with simple sides like a green salad, steamed veggies, garlic bread, or roasted broccoli. A light side dish balances the casserole’s richness, making a satisfying meal for everyone.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat covered in foil at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Can I freeze this ground beef casserole?

Definitely! It freezes beautifully. Cool it, then wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging. It keeps for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating. Freezing individual portions is a great tip.

How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

To save money, buy ground beef on sale, in bulk, or use cheaper cuts. Add more veggies or beans to stretch the meat. Shopping for sales and using store-brand products can also cut costs. ground beef casserole recipeMaking a tasty ground beef casserole is easy. This recipe card will help you cook a hearty meal your family will enjoy. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Equipment9x13-inch baking dishLarge skilletMixing bowlsMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaSharp knifeIngredients  2 pounds lean ground beef1 medium onion diced2 cups shredded cheese1 can cream of mushroom soup1 cup sour cream1 cup milkSalt and pepper to taste2 cups prepared pasta or riceInstructions Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)Brown ground beef in skillet, drain excess fatMix beef with remaining ingredients in large bowlTransfer mixture to greased baking dishBake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubblyLet rest 10 minutes before serving
Easy Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Perfect for Families

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