Ground Beef Casserole

May be an image of shepherd's pie

Ground Beef Casserole: A Comforting Classic Made Simple

There’s something timeless about a warm, hearty ground beef casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort after a long day, feeds a crowd without stress, and fills your kitchen with rich, savory aromas. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something satisfying, this casserole is a reliable go-to.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making a delicious ground beef casserole from scratch.

🥘 Ingredients

500g ground beef
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups cooked pasta (penne or macaroni work well)
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
½ cup sour cream or cream cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn

🔪 Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. If you haven’t cooked your pasta yet, boil it in salted water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Now add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

3. Build the Flavor

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well so everything is evenly combined.

Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 8–10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken slightly.

If you’re adding vegetables, mix them in at this stage and let them cook with the sauce.