A comforting casserole with ground beef is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine layers of juicy ground beef mingling with tender vegetables and creamy sauces, all bubbling away in the oven. The aroma wafts through your home like an invitation for everyone to gather around the table.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia on a plate. Picture family gatherings where laughter fills the air while this hearty meal steals the show. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy Sunday dinner, this comforting casserole brings people together in the most delicious way.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- Each bite bursts with rich flavors and delightful textures that will satisfy any craving.
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as much as for the tummy.
- You can easily adapt ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
Sharing this dish at our last family gathering got my cousin to declare it his new favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease; it cooks beautifully and adds heartiness to the dish.
- Onion: Chopped onions provide sweetness and depth of flavor; sauté until golden for best results.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma; I always add an extra clove because who doesn’t love garlic?
- Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity; choose fire-roasted ones for an extra kick.
- Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies save time; they bring color and nutrients without any chopping!
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that melty goodness on top; feel free to mix cheeses for variety.
- Casserole Dish: A deep 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly to hold all those delicious layers together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and mince your garlic while letting your oven preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant—around one minute will do!
Brown the Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned completely, breaking it apart with a spatula—about 5-7 minutes should suffice.
Add Veggies and Sauce: Stir in canned tomatoes and mixed vegetables into your skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper before simmering for about 10 minutes until everything melds beautifully.
Assemble Your Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into your greased casserole dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously over the top before placing it in the oven.
Bake Until Golden: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving—if you can resist that long!
Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting casserole with ground beef while reminiscing about those cozy family moments!
You Must Know
- This comforting casserole with ground beef will warm your heart and home.
- The blend of flavors creates a cozy dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in.
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have at hand, making it a versatile favorite.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then layer in vegetables and cheese for the best flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add in your favorite veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease; it makes your casserole lighter.
- Don’t skip browning the meat; this enhances flavor significantly.
- Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite cheesy twist on this comforting dish.
Memories of my friends devouring this casserole after a movie night still make me smile; it’s just delightful when shared.
FAQ
What is a comforting casserole with ground beef?
A comforting casserole with ground beef is a hearty dish featuring layers of meat, cheese, and veggies.
How long does a comforting casserole take to cook?
Typically, cook your comforting casserole for about 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I freeze my comforting casserole with ground beef?
Yes, freezing works perfectly! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container.
Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in this delicious comforting casserole with ground beef, featuring layers of savory meat, vibrant veggies, and melted cheese for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Increase heat and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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