Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

When you need a comforting dinner that is hearty, cheesy, and easy enough for a busy weeknight, this Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of recipe worth keeping close. It combines savory seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a creamy tomato-based sauce, and plenty of melted cheese in one bubbling casserole.

The best part is how simple the ingredients are. There is no complicated preparation or special cooking technique required. Everything comes together in a skillet before being transferred to a baking dish, where the cheese melts into a golden, delicious topping.

It is also an excellent make-ahead meal. Prepare the casserole earlier in the day, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This recipe checks all the boxes for a satisfying family meal:

• Simple ingredients: Most of the ingredients are easy pantry and refrigerator staples.
• Big comfort-food flavor: Seasoned beef, tomato sauce, pasta, and melted cheese make a wonderfully cozy combination.
• Easy preparation: The beef and sauce are cooked in one skillet before everything is assembled.
• Family-friendly: The mild, cheesy flavors are easy to customize.
• Great leftovers: The casserole reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 ounces pasta, such as elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14–15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

Optional Additions

You can easily personalize the casserole with ingredients such as:

• Diced bell peppers
• Sliced mushrooms
• Chopped spinach
• Red pepper flakes
• Worcestershire sauce
• Green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Cooked bacon

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente.

Avoid overcooking the pasta because it will continue cooking in the oven. Once finished, drain it well and set it aside.

If you’re preparing the pasta ahead of time, tossing it with a tiny amount of olive oil can help prevent the pieces from sticking together.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

If there is a large amount of excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain it before continuing.

Step 3: Add the Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, until the onion begins to soften.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.

Be careful not to burn the garlic. You want it fragrant rather than browned.

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