Ground Beef Casserole: A Cozy, Cheesy Family Favorite
Few things bring comfort quite like a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. This Ground Beef Casserole is everything a weeknight dinner should be—warm, hearty, cheesy, and easy to make. With layers of seasoned beef, colorful bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether served with pasta, rice, or on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Simple Ingredients – Everyday pantry staples and fresh vegetables make this meal easy to prepare without a trip to the store.
✅ Customizable – Use pasta or rice as your base, or make it low-carb by skipping it altogether.
✅ Crowd Pleaser – Creamy sauce, seasoned beef, and melted cheese make this a hit with kids and adults alike.
✅ Perfect for Leftovers – This casserole reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or busy nights.
Flavor and Texture
This casserole combines the rich savoriness of ground beef, the crunch and sweetness of bell peppers, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that ties everything together. The top layer bakes to a perfect golden crust, giving each bite a balance of melt-in-your-mouth creaminess and just the right amount of crisp.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Casserole
- Brown the beef well: Let it caramelize slightly to deepen the flavor.
- Use fresh bell peppers for a bright pop of color and taste.
- Don’t skimp on cheese: The combo of cheddar and mozzarella creates a perfect melt and flavor contrast.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Add a topping: A sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with butter can add a delicious crunch on top.
Perfect Pairings
- A crisp side salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness.
- Garlic bread or warm rolls make it a full, comforting meal.
- Pair with iced tea, sparkling water, or your favorite cozy drink for the ultimate comfort dinner.
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups cooked pasta or cooked rice (optional, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for sautéing
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
- Add the vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
- Mix in seasonings: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Combine the creamy layer: In a medium bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Add this mixture to the skillet with the beef and veggies. Stir until evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta (if using) or spread the beef mixture directly on the bottom. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining beef mixture, then top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra diced peppers or fresh parsley for color, if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect marriage of simple ingredients and big flavor. It’s versatile, satisfying, and easy to make—a true comfort food classic that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it hot, enjoy the cheesy layers, and let the cozy vibes fill your kitchen.
