There’s something truly comforting about homemade meals, and this Grandma's Hearty Ground Beef Casserole hits that sweet spot every time. Imagine walking into your kitchen, the aroma of garlic mingling with rich spices, and the warm scent of melting cheese wafting in the air. This classic dish combines savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that promises to wrap you in a cozy embrace with every bite.
Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is the perfect go-to recipe. It's not just delicious; it's incredibly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a friendly ally for busy cooks. Packed with flavors and a satisfaction that only comfort food can bring, you’ll find it becomes a cherished part of your family dinner rotation. Ready to dive into a meal that feels like a warm hug? Let's get cooking! 🍽️
Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole - Why You'll Love It?
Simplicity you can savor: Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, savory goodness: The harmonious mix of ground beef and cheesy cream sauce creates a flavor explosion that comforts the soul.
Family-friendly delight: Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty dish, making it a surefire hit at family gatherings.
Make-ahead magic: Prep it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready. It’s a time-saver you will appreciate!
Versatile variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own and cater to various tastes.
Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole - Ingredients
• Ingredient Note: Here's everything you need to make this comforting dish:
For the Casserole
- Ground Beef - Enhances the dish with protein and hearty flavor; opt for lean ground beef for a healthier choice.
- Onion - Brings a delightful aroma and sweetness; shallots can be swapped for a milder taste.
- Garlic - Boosts the flavor; increase the amount for a more robust garlic kick.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup - Serves as the creamy base; cream of chicken or a homemade sauce can be excellent alternatives.
- Cheddar Cheese - Delivers a gooey texture; consider mozzarella for a change or low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
- Sour Cream - Adds a tangy creaminess; Greek yogurt makes a healthy substitute.
- Pasta (Elbow Macaroni or Penne) - Gives structure to the casserole; use gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Italian Seasoning - Provides a blend of aromatic herbs; a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can be used if it's unavailable.
- Salt and Pepper - Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your taste.
- Fresh Parsley (optional) - For a pop of color and garnish; feel free to skip if you don't have it on hand.
This Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole is ready to bring comfort and joy to your table! 🍽️
How to Make Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. This will create the perfect base for your casserole.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it's fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes for a delicious, savory flavor.
Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent. This should take another 3-4 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a fantastic aroma!
Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the beef mixture, stirring well to combine. This will enhance the overall flavor of your casserole!
Mix in the Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Let it bubble gently for about 2-3 minutes.
Combine with Pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it's coated with the creamy beef mixture. The pasta will soak up all that rich flavor, making each bite delightful.
Prepare for Baking: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. This is where it will transform into a golden, bubbly delight.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, until it's bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Optional: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole?
Transform your meal into a delightful experience by pairing this comforting casserole with complementary dishes.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad brings brightness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of toasted bread complements the casserole's creamy texture perfectly.
- Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli: This hearty soup adds a warm, flavorful contrast, enriching your meal with additional comfort.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies offer a lovely contrast in texture and flavor, elevating the overall dining experience.
- Steamed Broccoli: Light and nutritious, broccoli provides a pop of green, enhancing both the visual appeal and healthfulness of your plate.
- Red Wine: A glass of light red wine harmonizes beautifully with the savory tastes of the casserole, making for a lovely pairing.
Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole - Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to tailor this casserole to suit your preferences and cravings for scrumptious flavors.
- Turkey Substitute: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner profile without sacrificing flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the beef mixture for an extra layer of nutrition and deliciousness.
- Creamy Twist: Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different rich and savory base.
- Cheesy Fusion: Experiment with blending different cheeses like mozzarella and pepper jack for a creamy, spicy kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta to make this casserole accessible for gluten-sensitive family members.
- Extra Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or stir in your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture for a delightful kick.
- Italian Flair: Toss in fresh basil or parsley to elevate the flavors and bring a fresh touch to this comforting dish.
- Nut-Free Creaminess: For a healthier alternative, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, maintaining that creamy goodness with a nutritious twist.
Expert Tips for Delicious Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole
• Prep Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance by assembling the ingredients and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing Friendly: Assemble the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before popping it in the oven.
• Vegetable Boost: Enhance nutrition by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach into the beef mixture.
• Avoid Soggy Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy while baking.
• Seasoning Check: Taste and adjust seasonings of the meat mixture before adding to the casserole, as it’ll help elevate the flavors of your Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole.
• Cheese Choices: Try different cheese varieties to personalize the flavor, like using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a rich, gooey texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by layering all the ingredients in the baking dish and covering it tightly with plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For even longer storage, feel free to freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months-just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish. When you're ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results. Then, simply bake it as directed, and you'll have a comforting meal ready to serve the moment you need it, saving you precious time on busy nights!
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole
Room Temperature: Keep the casserole out for no more than 2 hours after serving to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Unbaked casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in a freezer-safe dish; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating: For best results, cover the casserole with foil while reheating in the oven, preventing it from drying out, and enjoy your Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole delight!
Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use?
I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option; it provides plenty of flavor without excess fat. If you want a lighter dish, consider substituting with ground turkey or chicken, which also work wonderfully in this casserole!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to cover the dish with foil to keep it moist and enjoyable.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! Assemble the unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish and store it for up to 3 months. For proper thawing, place it in the refrigerator overnight before you bake it. This way, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without the wait!
What if my pasta gets mushy?
The key to avoiding mushy pasta is to cook it al dente according to package instructions. This means it should still have a slight bite to it when you combine it with the sauce; it will soften more during the baking process without becoming overly soft!
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Very much so! It's a great idea to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach. Sauté them briefly with the onions and garlic to enhance the flavor and texture; this makes your Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole even more nutritious!
How do I know when it's fully cooked?
Bake the casserole until it's bubbly and the top is golden brown, usually around 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). You'll see the cheese melting and the dish piping hot, which indicates it’s ready to be enjoyed with family and friends!
Comforting and Delicious Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the beef mixture.
- Mix in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until combined and melted.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s coated with the beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
- Optionally, sprinkle with parsley and serve hot.
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