If you’re looking for a delicious and filling dish that’s easy to make, a Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect solution. This casserole combines seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, creating a comforting meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Why Choose Ground Beef Casserole?
Ground beef casserole is one of those timeless recipes that combines simplicity with flavor. The versatility of ground beef, paired with your choice of vegetables and seasonings, makes this casserole a go-to meal for many. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a favorite:
- Affordable: Ground beef is a budget-friendly protein, making this casserole a cost-effective choice for families.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and a single baking dish, this casserole comes together in no time. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need something satisfying and hearty.
- Comforting: The combination of cheesy goodness and seasoned beef will warm you up from the inside out. It’s a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make this delicious Ground Beef Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – The main protein of the dish, providing a rich and savory base.
- 1 cup corn kernels – Adds a sweet crunch and color to the casserole.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Brings juiciness and a tangy flavor to balance the richness of the beef.
- 1 cup cooked rice – Adds bulk and heartiness to the dish, making it more filling.
- 1 small onion – Provides flavor and aroma to enhance the overall taste.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that melty, gooey layer of cheese on top.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix – For a burst of spice and flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For cooking the onions and ground beef.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly and comes out hot and bubbly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will add flavor and depth to the dish.
Step 4: Mix in the Seasonings
Add the taco seasoning mix to the skillet along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the seasoning.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Corn
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) and the corn kernels. Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes. This will help meld the flavors together.
Step 6: Combine with Rice
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef mixture. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole. The more cheese, the better – it will melt into a golden, bubbly layer as the casserole bakes.
Step 9: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like your cheese extra golden and crispy, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Tips for a Perfect Ground Beef Casserole
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or peas would all work well in this casserole. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
- Add More Spice: If you like things spicy, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. Then, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
- Use Ground Turkey: For a leaner alternative, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully. You can either freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
Pairing Suggestions
A Ground Beef Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can always serve it with side dishes to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside:
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: For a bit of crunch and extra flavor, serve the casserole with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus make a healthy and colorful side dish to balance out the meal.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef Casserole
While casseroles can sometimes get a bad reputation for being heavy and greasy, this version is balanced and nutritious. Here’s how it can be part of a healthy meal:
- Protein-Rich: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, and maintaining muscle mass.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of vegetables like corn and onions provides essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, fiber, and potassium.
- Customizable: You can control the ingredients, adding more vegetables or using lean ground beef to make the casserole lighter.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family after a long day or preparing a meal for guests, this casserole is sure to impress. Try it today, and enjoy a classic dish with a modern twist!