Looking for a hearty, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends? A Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the answer. This delicious dish brings together seasoned ground beef, tender pasta or rice, melted cheese, and a variety of flavorful vegetables in one satisfying bite. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this casserole recipe is easy to follow and will quickly become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this crowd-pleasing meal, along with tips, tricks, and variations to suit your taste buds!

What is a Simple Ground Beef Casserole?

A Ground Beef Casserole is a one-dish meal where ground beef is the star ingredient, complemented by a variety of vegetables, pasta or rice, and often topped with cheese. It's baked in a single dish, making it convenient to prepare, serve, and clean up. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be easily customized with different ingredients, sauces, and seasonings, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight meal rotation.

Ingredients List for Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this comforting Ground Beef Casserole recipe. Keep in mind that the beauty of casseroles lies in their flexibility, so you can adjust or substitute ingredients as needed.

For the Ground Beef Layer:

1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
1 small onion, chopped – Adds flavor and depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced – For that extra kick of savory goodness.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and tangy flavor.
½ cup tomato sauce – Helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning your beef.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
1 teaspoon paprika – Optional, for a subtle smoky flavor.

For the Casserole Base:

2 cups cooked pasta or rice – You can use any type of short pasta (elbow, penne) or rice.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans) – A great way to sneak in some veggies.
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup – A creamy base that ties all the ingredients together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For that gooey, melted goodness on top.

Optional Toppings:

¼ cup breadcrumbs – Adds a crispy topping.
¼ cup Parmesan cheese – For an extra cheesy finish.
Fresh parsley, chopped – To add a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about making a Ground Beef Casserole is that it’s easily customizable. Here are a few ways to adapt the recipe to your preferences:

Swap the protein: If you don’t have ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
Change the vegetables: Don’t like mixed vegetables? Use what you have on hand! Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would all work well in this recipe.
Make it low-carb: Instead of pasta or rice, try using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
Cheese options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños if you want to introduce some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make your Simple Ground Beef Casserole? Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfectly baked, cheesy, and comforting dish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Prepare the Casserole Base

While the beef mixture is simmering, cook your pasta or rice according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. If using frozen mixed vegetables, thaw them briefly in the microwave or by running under warm water.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta or rice, thawed mixed vegetables, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until evenly coated. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased casserole dish.

Step 7: Add the Ground Beef Layer

Spread the ground beef mixture evenly on top of the pasta or rice base.

Step 8: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer. For a crunchy top, you can also add breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to allow everything to set before slicing and serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a casserole is straightforward, but here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the pasta or rice: Undercook the pasta or rice slightly (al dente) so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Not draining the ground beef: Always drain excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
Too much liquid: If you’re using fresh tomatoes or adding extra sauce, make sure to adjust the liquid levels so your casserole isn’t too soupy.
Skipping the rest period: Allow the casserole to rest after baking. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A casserole is a homestyle dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t present it beautifully. Here are a few tips to elevate your Simple Ground Beef Casserole at the dinner table:

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Portion control: Use a sharp knife or a large spoon to cut the casserole into neat, square servings.
Sides: Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Casserole

Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
Individual servings: Instead of serving the casserole family-style, you can bake it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Tips

Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Make it in a disposable foil dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
Double the recipe: Cooking for a crowd? Double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, or prepare two smaller casseroles—one for now, and one for later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the fridge and bake it when you're ready.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Casserole?

Absolutely. Once cooled, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be sautéed and added to the casserole.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. You can also make a homemade white sauce if you prefer.

How do I reheat leftovers?

You can reheat individual servings in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and loved by all. With the option to customize ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this casserole is the perfect choice. Try it out today, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!