Ground Beef Casserole: A Comforting Classic Made Easy

Ground beef casseroles are the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and full of flavor. This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With layers of savory beef, vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, this Ground Beef Casserole will quickly become a household favorite. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making it perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For this casserole, you’ll need:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (150 g) frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup (120 ml) milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups (200 g) cooked pasta or rice (optional for a more filling version)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for a golden topping)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. After 5–7 minutes, when the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. This step brings out the flavor base for your casserole.