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Ground Beef Casserole: A Hearty Family Dinner Made Simple

Ground Beef Casserole is one of those comforting meals that brings warmth to the table with minimal effort. Combining seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a layer of melted cheese, this casserole transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying dinner that the whole family can enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal preparation, or whenever you’re craving a filling homemade meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is affordable, easy to customize, and ideal for feeding a crowd. The ingredients are simple and commonly found in most kitchens, yet the finished dish tastes like it has been cooking for hours. The combination of savory beef, flavorful sauce, and bubbly cheese creates a balanced meal that is both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is just slightly firm, about one to two minutes less than the package directions suggest. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, undercooking it slightly prevents it from becoming mushy.

Drain the pasta and set it aside while preparing the beef mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart using a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Season the beef with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.