Ground Beef Casserole

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Ground Beef Casserole: A Comforting Classic Made Simple

Few dishes capture the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked comfort food like a Ground Beef Casserole. It’s hearty, creamy, and loaded with rich flavor — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, melted cheese, and a luscious sauce baked to golden perfection. Let’s explore how to make this timeless favorite step by step.

🧀 Why You’ll Love This Dish

Easy to make: Minimal prep with everyday ingredients.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist the cheesy goodness.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap cheeses, or use different noodles.
Perfect for meal prep: Reheats beautifully and freezes well.

🍳 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a classic version of Ground Beef Casserole — rich, creamy, and absolutely irresistible:

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or egg noodles work great)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Chopped parsley, for garnish

🥘 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain it once tender (al dente is best) and set it aside. A little firmness helps it hold up better when baked.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Let it brown for about 5–7 minutes until fully cooked.

Drain any excess fat — this keeps your casserole from becoming greasy.