When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes rival the warmth and satisfaction of a cheesy baked beef casserole. Packed with flavorful layers of seasoned beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or something impressive for a potluck, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Its blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors ensures everyone will be asking for seconds.
This recipe is not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare. You’ll be guided step-by-step to create a golden, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Best of all, it takes only an hour from start to finish, making it a time-efficient meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Preparation TIME
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients
To make this cheesy baked beef casserole, gather the following:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (150g) diced bacon or ham (optional)
- 2 cups (200g) cooked pasta (penne, elbow, or fusilli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, rinse, and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Seasonings and Sauce
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Layer the Casserole
- Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, beef mixture, and cheese. If you’re using bacon or ham, sprinkle it between the layers for added flavor.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy baked beef casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For an extra treat, serve it with warm garlic bread on the side. This dish is also great as leftovers; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
This cheesy baked beef casserole is a recipe you’ll turn to time and again. Its layers of savory beef, tender pasta, and gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and ready in under an hour, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this casserole is guaranteed to leave everyone feeling satisfied and delighted.
Enjoy the cozy warmth of this dish and savor every bite—it’s comfort food at its finest!