Cheesy Baked Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can green beans, drained
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: 1/2 cup sour cream

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, corn, green beans, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Remove the skillet from the heat.

7. Stir in the cooked elbow macaroni and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

9. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

11. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

12. Optional: Stir in sour cream after cooking for an extra creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

A cheesy ground beef casserole is a fantastic base recipe. You can easily adjust it to fit your tastes. Let’s explore some delicious variations and substitutions you can make.

Vegetable Swaps and Additions

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetables! This casserole is very forgiving.

Consider adding diced carrots, celery, or even mushrooms to the ground beef while it’s browning. Frozen peas are also a simple and tasty addition.

Swap out the green beans for other favorites like broccoli florets or cauliflower. Just make sure they’re cooked until tender-crisp before adding them.

Protein Alternatives

While ground beef is the classic choice, you can easily substitute other proteins.

Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent lean alternatives. You could also use Italian sausage for a spicier kick.

For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or crumbled plant-based ground meat. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Cheese Combinations

Cheddar cheese is a classic, but there’s no need to limit yourself. Experiment with different cheeses to find your perfect blend.

Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sharp provolone would all be delicious. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a nice nutty flavor.

For a creamier casserole, mix in some cream cheese or ricotta cheese with the other ingredients.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Making a delicious casserole isn’t difficult, but a few key tips can take it to the next level. Let’s discuss some essential techniques for casserole perfection.

Browning the Beef Properly

Browning the ground beef correctly is essential for developing flavor.

Use a large skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. This will ensure the beef browns evenly instead of steaming.

Drain off any excess grease after browning to prevent a greasy casserole.

Preventing a Dry Casserole

Nobody wants a dry casserole. Here’s how to ensure a moist and flavorful dish:

Don’t overbake the casserole. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, but not dried out.

Adding a little extra tomato sauce or beef broth to the mixture can help keep it moist.

Covering the casserole with foil during the first half of baking can also prevent it from drying out.

Getting the Right Cheese Melt

Melty, bubbly cheese is a must for any cheesy casserole.

Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for uniform coverage.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

One of the best things about casseroles is that they can be made ahead of time. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Making the Casserole in Advance

You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance.

Simply prepare all the ingredients and assemble the casserole in the baking dish.

Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator.

When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Freezing Instructions

Casseroles also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prepping.

Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish.

Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then wrap it again with aluminum foil.

Label and date the casserole and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To bake from frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake as directed, adding extra time as needed.

Reheating Leftovers

Leftover cheesy ground beef casserole can be easily reheated.

You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or skillet.

For best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

A cheesy ground beef casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own. However, it pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Side Salad Options

A fresh salad is a perfect complement to the richness of the casserole.

A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice.

You could also try a Caesar salad or a chopped salad with a variety of vegetables.

Bread and Rolls

Warm bread or rolls are always a welcome addition to any casserole meal.

Garlic bread, dinner rolls, or even a crusty baguette would all be delicious.

Vegetable Sides

Adding another vegetable side dish can round out the meal.

Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sauteed spinach are all good options.

Health Considerations and Modifications

While cheesy ground beef casserole is a comforting classic, it’s not always the healthiest option. Here are some ways to make it healthier.

Lower-Fat Options

You can reduce the fat content of the casserole by using lean ground beef or ground turkey.

You can also use low-fat cheese and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup.

Adding Fiber

Increasing the fiber content of the casserole can make it more filling and nutritious.

Add extra vegetables, such as chopped carrots, celery, or peas.

Use whole-wheat pasta instead of regular pasta.

Reducing Sodium

Canned soups and processed ingredients can be high in sodium.

Use low-sodium versions of these ingredients, or make your own from scratch.

Avoid adding extra salt to the recipe.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Just make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the casserole.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

How long does the casserole last in the refrigerator?

The casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and vegetables on the stovetop first. Then, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Top with cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What can I do if my casserole is too watery?

If your casserole appears to be too watery, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture before baking. It will help thicken the sauce. Also, ensure the vegetables you are adding are well-drained.