Move over, Hamburger Helper! This easy, cheesy casserole has dinner covered.
When it comes to finger-licking good casseroles, my mom has made so many throughout the years that I’ve lost count. But some stand out more than others, especially when they make the most of simple ingredients. Ground beef casserole might not look like much at first, but after one bite, you’ll change your mind. This decadent meal tastes like a juicy burger in a bowl, with tender penne pasta to hold all those savory flavors, plus a hint of spice. What more could I ask for in a hearty dinner that sticks to my ribs?
The best part about ground beef casserole is that it is easy to prepare, serve, and save for later. So, no family is too small to reap the benefits of this dish that brims with deliciousness. Each bite has the ideal balance of pasta, meat, sauce, and cheese, so that no ingredient is lost in a wave of overwhelming flavors. Plus, it pairs nicely with all kinds of sides, from cornbread or rolls to a green salad. Seasoned and baked to perfection, ground beef casserole has become one of my go-to dinners to please a family. I know it will please yours, too.
What about other types of ground meat?
Although we try to keep it handy, my family and I don’t always have ground beef in the fridge. But sometimes, we have ground chicken or ground turkey. These varieties will do just as well, but keep in mind that the flavors will change slightly. Since they’re naturally leaner meats, chicken and turkey taste lighter and less rich. So, if you’re looking for a lower-fat protein, then these work well. I’ve also made a vegetarian version that replaces the ground meat with mashed and pan-fried chickpeas, but you can also try blitzed mushrooms or even a combination of blitzed lentils and walnuts.
How do I store leftovers?
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the microwave, or pop it back into an oven-safe dish and bake it for 10-15 minutes at 300°F.
Similar recipes to try
Got a lot of ground beef in your fridge to use up? No worries! We have plenty of hearty recipes for you to choose from. For instance, put a little spicy spin on your casserole with this Keto Ground Beef Mexican Casserole. Or, if you don’t have access to an oven, try Texas Hash instead. On the other hand, if a good old-fashioned Italian American dinner is what your family craves, then craft a classic Beef Lasagna. All of these alternative recipes transform ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese into a flavorful feast for kings and queens.
Ground Beef Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 1/3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh basil chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for about 8 minutes. It should be slightly underdone. Drain well.
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While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until soft. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic during the final minute.
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Pour in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3 minutes to blend the flavors. Mix in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
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In the prepared baking dish, mix the drained pasta with the beef and sauce mixture. Spread evenly and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. To brown the cheese, optionally broil the casserole for the last couple of minutes of baking. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
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Plate your casserole while hot. Garnish with fresh basil. Consider serving with a fresh side salad to complete a balanced meal.
Nutrition
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