Amazing Ground Beef Casserole: 40 Min Delicious Meal

Ground beef casserole has been a staple in my kitchen for years, especially on those busy weeknights when dinner needs to be both delicious and quick. I remember the first time I made this easy ground beef casserole for my family; the aroma of savory beef and creamy mushrooms filled the house, and my kids devoured it in minutes! It’s a true family favorite ground beef casserole because it’s so incredibly simple to throw together, yet tastes like a labor of love. This recipe is proof that you don’t need hours to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Let’s get cooking!

There are so many reasons why this ground beef casserole is a winner, and I’m so excited for you to try it! It’s become my go-to for a reason, and I know it will be yours too. Here’s why this recipe is so fantastic:

• It’s incredibly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any night of the week.
• This is a true family favorite ground beef casserole that even picky eaters will love.
• The flavors are so comforting and satisfying, making it a delicious comfort food ground beef casserole.
• It’s a wonderfully versatile ingredient base, so feel free to swap out veggies or starches to suit your tastes.
• This recipe is an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights, serving up a complete meal with minimal fuss.
• You’ll love how simple it is to make this easy ground beef casserole without sacrificing flavor.
• It truly is the best ground beef casserole for a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious and easy ground beef casserole. Here’s what you’ll need for this simple ground beef casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef – I like to use an 80/20 blend for great flavor, but lean is fine too.
• 2 cups green beans, fresh or frozen – these add a lovely pop of color and freshness.
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup – this is the secret to a creamy, flavorful binder for our casserole.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that irresistible gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1 cup cooked rice – leftover rice works perfectly here, making it a true quick ground beef casserole.
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped – adds a foundational savory sweetness.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – for an extra layer of flavor without overwhelming.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Key Ingredients and Their Purpose

The cream of mushroom soup is what really makes this a creamy ground beef casserole; it acts as a fantastic binder and adds a rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef. And who doesn’t love a good topping? The shredded cheddar cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crown that makes this dish incredibly appealing. Using cooked rice is a smart shortcut that speeds up the process, ensuring this is a truly quick ground beef casserole recipe. For more information on the benefits of quick meals, check out our latest recipes.

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Let’s get this easy ground beef casserole into your oven! This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a delicious and simple ground beef bake that your family will adore. You’ll love how quickly this comes together, making it perfect for a busy dinner.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Preheating the Oven

Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to give it enough time to reach the correct temperature so your casserole bakes evenly. I like to do this while I’m prepping other ingredients.

Browning the Beef and Onions

Step 2: Grab a large skillet and add your 1 lb ground beef and 1/2 cup chopped onion. Cook this over medium heat, breaking up the beef as it browns. You’re looking for that lovely savory aroma and for the beef to be cooked through. Once it’s done, carefully drain off any excess fat; this helps keep the casserole from being too greasy. Proper fat drainage is key to a great casserole, similar to how air fryer cooking often emphasizes crispness.

Combining Casserole Ingredients

Step 3: Now for the magic! To the skillet with the beef and onions, stir in the 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all up until it’s well combined. The soup will start to create a wonderful, creamy sauce. Next, add in your 1 cup cooked rice and 2 cups green beans. Stir gently until everything is coated and looks delicious.

Assembling and Baking

Step 4: Lightly grease a casserole dish. Pour your entire beef, rice, and green bean mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. This is where it starts to look like a real ground beef bake! Finally, sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has a beautiful golden-brown hue. The smell that fills your kitchen during this time is truly amazing!

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Casserole

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it absolutely perfect every single time. Follow these tips for the ultimate family favorite ground beef casserole!

• Always drain your ground beef thoroughly after browning. This prevents a greasy casserole and ensures the flavors meld better.
• Don’t overcook the green beans before adding them; they’ll continue to cook in the oven, and you want them to retain a little crispness.
• For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried thyme or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.

What’s the secret to a perfect Ground Beef Casserole?

The magic lies in the creamy binder and the perfectly cooked components. Using cream of mushroom soup along with pre-cooked rice and tender green beans ensures a cohesive, flavorful, and satisfying dish every time you make this easy ground beef casserole. For more on food science and cooking techniques, you can explore resources on food safety.

Can I make Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add the cheese and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Casserole?

A common pitfall is a dry casserole; ensure you drain the fat well and use the full can of soup. Another mistake is under-baking; make sure the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Lastly, don’t use raw rice; pre-cooking it ensures it absorbs moisture and becomes tender. For more on common cooking errors, consult our terms of use which often touch upon best practices.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This hearty ground beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but serving it with a few simple sides can elevate it even further. It’s a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

For a balanced and fresh meal, I love serving this easy ground beef casserole with a simple side salad. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully. Alternatively, some warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any delicious cheesy bits left at the bottom of the dish. You could also pair it with steamed broccoli or roasted carrots for extra veggies.

Pairing Ideas

When it comes to drinks, this family favorite ground beef casserole goes well with classic comfort food pairings. A cold glass of milk or a light lager complements the savory flavors perfectly. If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider a simple iced tea or even a light, fruity red wine like a Beaujolais. These pairings enhance the comforting, home-style appeal of this simple ground beef bake. For more on food and drink pairings, you might find resources on data privacy in culinary contexts interesting.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Casserole

This ground beef casserole is a satisfying and relatively balanced meal, perfect for a family dinner. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the fat content of the ground beef and the type of cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Casserole

Leftovers of this delicious ground beef casserole are a gift that keeps on giving! I always make sure to have enough for a second meal because it reheats so well. Proper storage is key to enjoying this easy ground beef casserole later, whether it’s for lunch tomorrow or a quick dinner next week. You’ll be happy you saved some of this family favorite ground beef casserole!

Storage Guidelines

Once your ground beef casserole has cooled slightly, it’s time to store it. For refrigeration, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh and tasty in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this simple ground beef bake for longer, pop it into a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for future quick dinners!

Reheating Instructions

Reheating this ground beef casserole is super simple. If it’s been in the fridge, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place the entire dish in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight first, then follow the oven reheating method, increasing the time slightly. Either way, you’ll be enjoying another delicious serving of this easy ground beef casserole in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Casserole

What is a good ground beef casserole?

A truly good ground beef casserole is one that’s easy to make, packed with comforting flavors, and has a satisfying texture. It should be a dish that brings people together, like this simple ground beef bake, offering a delicious and wholesome meal without a lot of fuss. The best ones balance savory meat, creamy elements, and a delightful topping.

Can I use different types of meat in this casserole?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for ground beef, you can easily substitute it. Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent lean alternatives for a lighter version. For a richer flavor, consider using ground pork or a mix of beef and pork. Just ensure the meat is browned and drained similarly to the ground beef casserole recipe.

What vegetables can I add to a ground beef casserole?

This ground beef casserole is quite versatile when it comes to veggies! Besides green beans, you could add corn, peas, diced carrots, broccoli florets, or even spinach. Feel free to use fresh or frozen vegetables. Adding a mix of colorful vegetables makes your ground beef bake both more nutritious and visually appealing. It’s a great way to sneak in more goodness!

Variations of Ground Beef Casserole You Can Try

This ground beef casserole is a fantastic base, but it’s also super fun to tweak and customize! Whether you’re craving something extra cheesy, want to swap out the rice, or load it up with more veggies, there are tons of ways to make this recipe your own. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of this family favorite ground beef casserole.

Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Variation

Want to double down on the cheese factor? You can easily elevate this into a truly cheesy ground beef casserole. Try adding a cup of Monterey Jack or a Colby blend along with the cheddar. For an extra decadent touch, stir a dollop of cream cheese into the beef mixture before baking. This makes for an incredibly rich and gooey experience!

Ground Beef and Noodle Casserole Variation

If you’re a fan of pasta, you can transform this into a delicious ground beef and noodle casserole. Instead of using cooked rice, simply swap it out for 2 cups of cooked egg noodles or elbow macaroni. Make sure the noodles are al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. This variation offers a delightful change in texture and is just as comforting!

Ground Beef Casserole with Vegetables Variation

You can easily make this a more robust ground beef casserole with vegetables by adding more of your favorites. Alongside the green beans, consider adding a cup of frozen corn, peas, or even some diced bell peppers. For a heartier option, sauté some mushrooms or add a layer of thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom before adding the beef mixture. This boosts the flavor and nutritional content wonderfully!

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