Introduction: Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to the table with its layers of savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly baked pasta. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors and creamy texture make it the ultimate comfort food to enjoy on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Prepare the sauce: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors.
Mix pasta and beef mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, beef mixture, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well incorporated.
Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.
Description:
This Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole is a perfect blend of savory beef, melty cheese, and comforting pasta. The creamy texture of the sour cream and the tangy tomato sauce creates a balanced dish that is rich and satisfying. The casserole is baked until golden and bubbly, making it a comforting meal everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Tips:
For added flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick of heat.
For extra creaminess: Substitute half of the sour cream with cream cheese or add a dollop of ricotta cheese to the mixture.
Add vegetables: Incorporate some cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the beef mixture for a more nutritious twist.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven for an extra 10 minutes to ensure it’s hot throughout.
Variations:
Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or a few tablespoons of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Vegetarian option: Omit the meat and replace it with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.
Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or gouda, for varied flavors.
Correction:
Ensure that the beef mixture is well seasoned, and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can also use low-sodium tomato products if preferred.
Enjoy:
Now that your Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole is ready, gather around the table and enjoy this delicious, comforting dish with your loved ones. The melted cheese, savory beef, and flavorful pasta will make every bite a satisfying experience!
