Savory Ground Beef Bake

Easy and Delicious Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Ground Beef Casserole

About This Ground Beef Casserole

Looking for a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner option? This ground beef casserole recipe is the perfect solution! It’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal preparation, and is packed with hearty ingredients that the whole family will love. This casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few readily available ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a delicious and wholesome dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of ground beef, creamy soups, potatoes, and cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling completely satisfied.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Author: Julia Pacheco

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of cheddar soup
  • 3 cups cubed potatoes, frozen
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder to taste
  • Onion powder to taste
  • Dried thyme to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Season the Beef: Season the cooked ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and seasoned ground beef, cream of cheddar soup, cream of mushroom soup, frozen cubed potatoes, and 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
  6. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  8. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
  9. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and satisfying ground beef casserole!

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

Want to customize your ground beef casserole? Here are some helpful tips and variations to make it your own:

  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, or mixed vegetables into the ground beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole for a softer texture.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor and heat.
  • Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheeses, to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the ground beef mixture. This will add richness and moisture to the dish.
  • Topping Variations: Instead of shredded cheese, try topping the casserole with crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or crispy fried onions for added texture and flavor.
  • Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great option for busy days when you want to get a head start on dinner preparation.
  • Leftover Magic: Store leftover ground beef casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This ground beef casserole is a complete meal in itself, but here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

  • Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad with your favorite dressing for a light and refreshing contrast.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Complement the casserole with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrients and fiber.
  • Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • Corn on the Cob: Enjoy with grilled or boiled corn on the cob for a classic and satisfying combination.
  • Coleslaw: Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw for a cool and tangy accompaniment.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 748 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 41g
  • Fat: 47g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 144mg
  • Sodium: 1394mg
  • Potassium: 1452mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Vitamin A: 876 IU
  • Vitamin C: 31mg
  • Calcium: 466mg
  • Iron: 4mg

Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Enjoyed This Recipe?

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