Quick One-Pot Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is a classic comfort food, and this one-pot version makes it even easier to enjoy! This recipe minimizes cleanup without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and customizable to your family’s preferences.

Why One-Pot Casseroles Are a Game-Changer

Traditional casseroles often involve boiling pasta, browning meat in a separate pan, and then assembling everything in a baking dish. The beauty of a one-pot casserole lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks in a single pot, reducing both the time spent cooking and the number of dishes to wash.

One-pot cooking also allows the flavors to meld together more effectively. As the ingredients simmer in the same pot, they infuse each other, creating a richer, more cohesive flavor profile. This method is particularly beneficial for casseroles, where the goal is to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

The Ultimate Quick One-Pot Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

This recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and delicious. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients (Except Cheese): Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), cream of mushroom soup, kidney beans, beef broth, elbow macaroni, oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and creamy.

6. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations and Tips for a Perfect Casserole

This recipe is a great starting point, but there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and tips to make your casserole even better:

• Vegetable Boost: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella.
• Use Different Pasta: If you don’t have elbow macaroni on hand, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole before adding the cheese.
• Make it Healthier: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
• Adjust the Liquid: If the casserole seems too dry, add a little more beef broth. If it seems too wet, cook it uncovered for a few minutes to allow the excess liquid to evaporate.
• Slow Cooker Adaptation: Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic as directed. Transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients (except the cheese), and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cheese before serving.

Making Ahead and Storage

One-pot ground beef casserole is a great dish to make ahead of time. You can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, simply add the cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole for longer storage. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

The Secret to a Flavorful Ground Beef Casserole

The key to a truly delicious ground beef casserole is to build layers of flavor. Start by browning the ground beef properly. This creates a rich, savory base for the dish.

Don’t skimp on the aromatics. Sautéing the onion and garlic in the rendered beef fat infuses the entire casserole with their distinctive flavors.

Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. This will make a noticeable difference in the final result.

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices. A little bit of paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning can add depth and complexity to the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This quick one-pot ground beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and easy to prepare.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to casseroles.
• Coleslaw: Coleslaw adds a creamy and tangy element to the meal.
• Cornbread: Cornbread is a hearty and satisfying side dish that pairs well with ground beef casserole.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes.)

FAQ About One-Pot Ground Beef Casserole

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It’s a leaner option, so you may need to add a little extra oil to the pot when browning it.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, corn, or peas.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based ground “beef” and vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables to make it a more substantial meal.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?

A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Q: How do I reheat the casserole?

A: You can reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: Can I add cream cheese to the casserole?

A: Yes, adding cream cheese will make the casserole extra creamy. Stir in a few ounces of softened cream cheese along with the cheddar cheese.