Ground Beef Casserole Recipes
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with these delicious ground beef casserole recipes. Perfect for weeknight dinners, these casseroles offer a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutrition. Easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasers, they make for hearty meals that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Discover the joy of a warm, cheesy casserole that not only fills the stomach but warms the heart.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the casserole): Approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 20g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber. This is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess fat and add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, bell pepper, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese evenly.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free alternative or add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with sour cream or a dollop of guacamole for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the beef to prevent dryness.
– Don’t skip draining excess fat for a healthier dish.
– Ensure even distribution of ingredients in the casserole.
– Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor.
– Experiment with different spices to customize the taste.
– Add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture.
– Use a larger casserole dish if doubling the recipe.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
What can I add to make it spicier?
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even browning.
How long does it take to cook from frozen?
If baking from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat substitutes work well.
Conclusion
Ground beef casseroles are versatile, delicious, and the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. With endless variations and easy preparation, they make a comforting meal that everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to create your own unique version!
Ground Beef Casserole Recipes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup corn frozen or canned
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, bell pepper, corn, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese evenly.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve.
