Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

 

Ingredients:

• For the Beef Layer:
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Topping:
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or parsley)

Equipment:

• Large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onions are translucent.
   • Stir in the diced carrots, frozen peas, and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
   • Pour in the beef broth, add dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread half of the tomato sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Layer the cooked beef and vegetable mixture over the sauce.
   • Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the beef layer.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh chopped herbs before serving.

This casserole is perfect for a satisfying dinner and pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. Enjoy your cooking