Ah, you’re talking about Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole—a classic comfort food that’s hearty, cheesy, and easy to make! Here’s a detailed recipe:
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until beef is browned and onions are soft.
- Drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes.
- Mix the Casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, 3/4 of the shredded cheese, and milk. Mix well.
- Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Optional: sprinkle breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a creamier texture.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
If you want, I can also give a quick 15-minute stovetop version that’s just as cheesy and comforting, but skips the oven. That’s perfect for weeknights.
Do you want me to do that?
