Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cheesy ground beef casserole: just the name conjures up images of warm, comforting goodness, doesn’t it? This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug in a dish, a nostalgic trip back to family dinners and potlucks overflowing with delicious, shareable food. I remember my grandmother making a version of this every Thanksgiving, and it was always the first thing to disappear!

While the exact origins of casseroles are debated, their popularity soared in the mid-20th century, fueled by convenience and the desire to create hearty, budget-friendly meals. They became a staple in American households, a symbol of resourcefulness and family togetherness. And let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of perfectly browned cheese bubbling over a savory filling?

What makes a cheesy ground beef casserole so universally loved? It’s the symphony of flavors and textures, of course! The rich, savory ground beef, the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the satisfying crunch of a topping (whether it’s crispy fried onions, buttery breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips!) create an irresistible combination. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, spices, and cheeses to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. But beyond the taste, it’s the sheer convenience that makes this dish a winner. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd. So, let’s get cooking and create a cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained (like Rotel)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• Optional: Chopped green onions for garnish

Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This is a crucial step for preventing a greasy casserole. Nobody wants that!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, and diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained). Add the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!

Cooking the Macaroni:

1. Boil the Macaroni: While the ground beef mixture is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions. I usually cook it al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
2. Drain the Macaroni: Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Make sure to get rid of all the excess water.

Combining and Assembling the Casserole:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the ground beef mixture, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and milk. Mix everything together until well combined. The sour cream adds a lovely tang and creaminess to the casserole.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
3. Pour into the Baking Dish: Pour the macaroni and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden, bubbly, and irresistible cheesy crust.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Let it Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve.
3. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it Up: For a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture or use a spicier variety of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers, corn, or peas. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
• Make it Healthier: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for added fiber.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Cream of Chicken Soup Substitution: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken soup. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious!
• Breadcrumb Topping: For a crispy topping, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair it with garlic bread or crusty rolls.
• It’s also great with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Storage Instructions:

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Conclusion:

This cheesy ground beef casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that your whole family will adore. From the savory ground beef base to the creamy, cheesy topping, every bite is an explosion of deliciousness. It’s quick to assemble, uses readily available ingredients, and is endlessly adaptable to your personal preferences. Honestly, what’s not to love?

I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and filling on the table fast. But it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests – just dress it up with a fresh side salad and some crusty bread.

Speaking of serving suggestions, the possibilities are truly endless! For a complete meal, I love serving this casserole with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. You could also add a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for extra veggies. And don’t forget the bread! A warm, crusty loaf is ideal for soaking up all that delicious cheesy sauce.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are tons of variations you can try to customize this recipe to your liking. Want to add some heat? Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. Craving more veggies? Sauté some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms and add them to the ground beef mixture. You could even swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Another fun variation is to experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is a classic choice, you could also use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. And if you’re a fan of spice, try adding a layer of pepper jack cheese for a kick.

For a truly decadent experience, consider topping the casserole with a layer of crispy fried onions before baking. The added crunch and savory flavor will take this dish to the next level. Or, if you’re short on time, you can simply sprinkle some crushed potato chips on top for a similar effect.

I’m confident that once you try this cheesy ground beef casserole, it will become a staple in your recipe rotation. It’s the kind of dish that everyone loves, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself turning to it again and again.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with me! Let me know in the comments below what variations you tried, what sides you served it with, and how your family enjoyed it. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I love hearing from my readers. Happy cooking!