Ground Beef Casserole Recipes
Craving a hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction? Look no further than ground beef casserole recipes! These dishes are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these casseroles promise to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create your very own ground beef casserole masterpiece.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup diced onions
– 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
– 2 cups cooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the casserole):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on an average serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess fat and add diced onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
4. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and corn to the skillet; mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use quinoa or rice instead of pasta for a gluten-free version. Vegetables like zucchini or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This ground beef casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the beef to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skimp on seasoning; it enhances the flavor of the dish.
– Use a large enough baking dish to prevent overflow.
– Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to set.
– Ensure pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
– Add hot sauce or spices for a kick.
– Incorporate seasonal vegetables for freshness.
– Make it ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure to thaw it safely in the refrigerator before cooking.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden brown.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or beans.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge or frozen. They make for a quick and easy meal later on.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, spinach, or carrots.
Conclusion
Ground beef casserole recipes are a fantastic way to create a delicious meal that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a comforting dish any night of the week. Try this recipe and make it your own with your favorite additions!
Ground Beef Casserole Recipes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup bell peppers chopped
- 2 cups cooked pasta e.g., penne or rotini
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add diced onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, and corn to the skillet; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
