This Ground Beef Casserole is a rich, savory dish made with seasoned beef, pasta or potatoes, tomato sauce, and lots of melty cheese. It’s simple, customizable, and feeds a crowd — think lasagna vibes but easier and faster!
⏱ Prep & Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: ~45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
🥄 Equipment
- 9×13″ baking dish
- Skillet
- Large pot (if using pasta)
- Mixing spoon
- Colander (if needed)
- Oven
🧂 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450g) | Lean or 80/20 for flavor |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Optional, adds sweetness |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Or 1 tsp garlic powder |
| Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | You can also use marinara |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | Adds richness (optional) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Or mix of oregano & basil |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Season beef well |
| Cooked pasta OR sliced potatoes | 3 cups cooked | Penne, rotini, or thin-sliced potatoes |
| Sour cream | ¾ cup | Adds creaminess |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1½ to 2 cups | Or mozzarella for a stretchier melt |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
🍅 Ingredient Notes
- Meat options: Ground turkey or sausage also work.
- Pasta: Short pasta like penne or elbow is ideal.
- Potatoes: Slice thinly and parboil or microwave before layering if using raw.
- Sauce: Marinara, tomato soup, or enchilada sauce can change the vibe.
🍲 Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Grease a 9×13″ casserole dish.
2. Cook pasta (if using)
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in garlic, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Assemble the casserole
In the baking dish:
- Layer the cooked pasta or potatoes on the bottom.
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over it.
- Spread a layer of sour cream over the beef (optional but creamy!).
- Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Rest & serve
Let it rest 5–10 minutes before serving to set.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Varies depending on ingredients used (e.g., full-fat vs light sour cream).
💡 Tips & Variations
✅ Tips
- Double it: Freeze half before baking for an easy make-ahead meal.
- Drain meat well: Keeps the casserole from being greasy.
- Let it rest: Gives everything time to firm up and slice cleanly.
🔄 Variations
- Mexican-Style: Use taco seasoning, black beans, and cheddar; top with crushed tortilla chips.
- Cheeseburger Casserole: Add pickles, ketchup/mustard to the meat, use cheddar.
- Low-carb: Use cauliflower florets or zucchini slices instead of pasta.
- Breakfast twist: Use hash browns instead of pasta and add scrambled eggs.
