Easy Stuffed Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casseroles are a weeknight dinner staple for a reason: they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. This easy stuffed ground beef casserole takes that concept to the next level, creating a complete meal in one dish. Imagine tender ground beef nestled amongst fluffy stuffing, all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to use up leftover stuffing or transform a boxed mix into something truly special. Get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful casserole that the whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Ground Beef Casserole

This casserole is more than just a quick dinner fix; it’s a crowd-pleaser with several key advantages:

• Ease of Preparation: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. You can even assemble it ahead of time and bake it later.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an economical protein source, and the other ingredients are typically pantry staples. This makes it a wallet-friendly option for feeding a family.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the recipe to your liking. Swap out the vegetables, add different cheeses, or use a variety of seasonings to create your own signature version.
• Comfort Food: The combination of savory ground beef and comforting stuffing creates a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. It’s perfect for lunch or a quick reheated dinner.

Ingredients and Variations

The core of this recipe is built around ground beef and stuffing, but the possibilities for customization are vast.

The Ground Beef Base

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize grease. You can also use ground turkey or ground chicken as a healthier alternative. Be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth of flavor to the ground beef. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic for even distribution.
• Tomato Sauce or Diced Tomatoes: Use your favorite tomato-based sauce to bind the ground beef and add moisture. Diced tomatoes with their juices offer a chunkier texture. Consider fire-roasted diced tomatoes for added smoky flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are essential. Other great additions include Italian seasoning, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Worcestershire Sauce (Optional): A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami flavor that enhances the beefiness of the dish.

The Stuffing Layer

• Stuffing Mix: Use your favorite boxed stuffing mix or prepare homemade stuffing. For boxed mix, follow the package directions, but consider adding some extra butter or broth for a more flavorful and moist result.
• Butter or Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps to bind the stuffing.
• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is used to moisten the stuffing.
• Celery and Onion (Optional): If you’re using boxed stuffing, adding sautéed celery and onion can elevate the flavor profile.
• Dried Cranberries or Nuts (Optional): These additions add texture and a touch of sweetness to the stuffing.

The Cheese Topping

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

Creative Variations

• Vegetable Power: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to the ground beef mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a can of diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef for a spicier kick.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup to the ground beef mixture for a creamier casserole.
• Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning, add a can of black beans and corn, and top with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.
• Pizza Casserole: Use pizza sauce instead of tomato sauce, add pepperoni or sausage to the ground beef, and top with mozzarella cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This stuffed ground beef casserole is incredibly easy to make. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add Worcestershire sauce if desired.

4. Prepare the Stuffing: Prepare the stuffing according to package directions or your favorite homemade recipe.

5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the prepared stuffing, spreading it evenly over the ground beef.

6. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the stuffing. Add Parmesan cheese if desired.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

8. Let Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld further and makes it easier to slice.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Ground Beef: Overcooked ground beef can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned and then simmer it in the tomato sauce to keep it moist.
• Moisten the Stuffing: Make sure the stuffing is adequately moistened with broth. Dry stuffing will result in a dry casserole. If using a boxed mix, consider adding a little extra broth than the package directions call for.
• Use Quality Cheese: Using good quality cheese will make a difference in the flavor and texture of the casserole. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese is always the best option.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Using too small of a baking dish can result in a casserole that doesn’t cook evenly. A 9×13 inch baking dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Reheating: Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or in the oven. To reheat in the oven, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This stuffed ground beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of side dishes.

• Salads: A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and easy side dishes.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to casseroles.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting meal, serve the casserole with mashed potatoes.
• Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob is a delicious and seasonal side dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: If you’re making this casserole around the holidays, serve it with cranberry sauce for a festive touch.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.

What kind of stuffing should I use?

You can use your favorite boxed stuffing mix or prepare homemade stuffing.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to the ground beef mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.

What if my stuffing is dry?

Add a little extra broth to moisten it before adding it to the casserole. You can also drizzle some melted butter over the stuffing before baking.