Casserole Ground Beef Recipe

There’s something magical about gathering around the dinner table with a comforting casserole, especially one as hearty and flavorful as Casserole Ground Beef. This dish embodies everything we love about home-cooked meals: juicy beef, a medley of veggies, savory spices, and ooey-gooey cheese, all nestled together in one bubbling pan. Whether you’re serving a hungry family on a busy weeknight or preparing for a cozy potluck, this crowd-pleasing favorite promises not only mouthwatering flavor but also satisfyingly simple preparation. If you’re looking to add a bit more joy to your dinner routine, this recipe is destined to become your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Casserole Ground Beef such a beloved classic is its simplicity. Every ingredient is essential, working together to build layers of flavor and irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you’ll love each piece of this delicious puzzle.

• Lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef for robust flavor without excess grease; it forms the heart of the casserole.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): The aromatic base adds gentle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• Bell peppers (1 cup, diced): Use any color for a pop of color and mild crunch—the more vibrant, the better!
• Canned diced tomatoes with herbs (14.5 oz): These tomatoes bring tangy brightness and a hit of herby flavor with minimal effort.
• Frozen mixed vegetables (2 cups): A convenient way to add color, nutrition, and texture straight from your freezer.
• Cooked rice (2 cups): The perfect backbone—rice soaks up the savory juices and brings each bite together.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts to golden perfection, infusing the casserole with creamy, tangy richness.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): A bold background note that ties the other flavors together.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Adds an herbaceous punch, making everything taste a little brighter and more complex.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget these essentials—season to your personal preference!

How to Make Casserole Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking apart any larger clumps, until no pink remains and the meat is nicely browned. This step is where you start building deep savory flavor, making your Casserole Ground Beef extra satisfying.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies

Toss the chopped onion and diced bell peppers right into the skillet with the beef. Sauté everything together for a few minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent. You’ll notice your kitchen filling with that irresistible aroma—always a good sign you’re on the right track.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Frozen Veggies

Stir in the entire can of diced tomatoes with herbs (juice and all), followed by the frozen mixed vegetables. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, and the frozen veggies begin to soften up, creating a harmonious blend for your casserole.

Step 4: Fold in Rice and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the cooked rice, along with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and your desired amount of salt and pepper. Gently fold everything together so the ingredients combine evenly, and every spoonful of your Casserole Ground Beef comes out perfectly seasoned and balanced.

Step 5: Transfer and Top with Cheese

Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing it out into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top. This is where your casserole starts to look (and smell) irresistible, with the promise of melty, bubbling cheese just minutes away.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Pop your casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese will melt, become golden, and start to bubble around the edges. Once done, let your masterpiece rest for a few minutes before digging in—those flavors are hot and delicious!

How to Serve Casserole Ground Beef

Garnishes

Finish your Casserole Ground Beef with a flourish! Chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions add a burst of color and a refreshing bite. For a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes does wonders. Even a dollop of sour cream can take things to the next level of comfort.

Side Dishes

Though this casserole is hearty on its own, it pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness, while crusty bread or homemade garlic toast is perfect for scooping up every last bite of cheesy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Casserole Ground Beef in individual ramekins for a dinner party look, or use colorful oven-safe dishes for a playful family-style meal. This dish also triples as a potluck superstar—transport it in your baking dish, and you’ll leave with an empty pan every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

One of the joys of Casserole Ground Beef is just how well it keeps. Simply cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each subsequent serving taste even more delicious!

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, this casserole freezes like a dream. Wrap cooled portions or the whole dish securely with plastic wrap and then foil. It’ll keep well for up to three months—ideal for busy nights when you crave homemade comfort.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Warm up individual servings in the microwave or place the whole casserole, covered, in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top to revive that magic melty finish.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe and makes a lighter version of Casserole Ground Beef. Just make sure to season generously to boost flavor.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Fresh vegetables are wonderful here. Just chop them to a similar size as the frozen mix and sauté a bit longer with the onions and bell peppers before adding the rest of the ingredients.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready, bake as directed—just add five minutes to the cooking time if it’s going straight from the fridge.

Is there a gluten-free option?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you double-check that your canned tomatoes and seasoning blends contain no hidden gluten. Swap in brown rice or even quinoa for variety!

How do I make it spicier?

For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the veggies. You can also mix in pepper jack cheese with the cheddar for extra zip in your Casserole Ground Beef.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to take a crack at this Casserole Ground Beef. It’s the kind of dinner that brings people together—warm, filling, and full of flavor, yet incredibly easy to whip up even on your busiest nights. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and savor the delicious rewards!

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