Name: Simple Ground Beef Casserole: Easy Meal for Busy Nights!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound uncooked penne 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound lean ground beef 1/2 medium onion chopped 1 clove garlic minced; 1.5 cups marinara sauce Salt & pepper to taste; 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

When it comes to comforting weeknight dinners, few dishes can compete with a hearty ground beef casserole. This uncomplicated meal brings together savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a family favorite. Its versatility allows for endless adaptations, from adding vegetables to experimenting with seasonings, ensuring that every version keeps dinner exciting.

Moreover, a simple ground beef casserole can be prepared in just one dish, making cleanup a breeze. As a result, it’s an ideal choice for busy individuals or families seeking a delightful yet effortless dining experience. Dive into the world of easy casseroles, and discover how this classic dish can transform your meals!

Ingredients for Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

Creating a flavorful Simple Ground Beef Casserole is easy and requires just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1.5 cups marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

This hearty dish combines the rich taste of ground beef, flavorful marinara, and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite. For an additional savory twist, consider pairing this casserole with easy recipes like the Teriyaki Chicken Skillet Casserole with Broccoli. It’s a delightful way to diversify your meal planning! Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction that this recipe brings, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.

How to Prepare Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

Preparing a Simple Ground Beef Casserole is both easy and satisfying. Start by cooking 1 pound of uncooked penne pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until nicely browned. Toss in 1/2 medium chopped onion and 1 clove of minced garlic. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Next, stir in 1.5 cups of marinara sauce and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the cooked penne with the beef mixture and mix well. Pour this hearty blend into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

This delicious casserole not only makes a great weeknight meal but also pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables. If you enjoy casseroles, you may want to try Teriyaki Chicken Skillet Casserole with Broccoli for another delightful option!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

To make your Simple Ground Beef Casserole truly stand out, start with high-quality ground beef. Opt for 80/20 beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. Brown the beef thoroughly in a skillet, breaking it into small pieces, and drain any excess fat to prevent greasiness. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Layering is crucial; use cooked pasta or rice for added texture and flavor, and don’t skimp on the veggies. Optional ingredients like bell peppers and onions can enhance the casserole’s taste and nutrition.

Remember, you can explore a delicious variation by checking out the Teriyaki Chicken Skillet Casserole with Broccoli.

Lastly, for a creamy finish, consider adding cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking. For additional cooking guidelines and variations, visit this fantastic resource for ground beef casserole inspiration: Salt and Lavender’s Ground Beef Casserole. Enjoy your creation!

Serving Suggestions:

A Simple Ground Beef Casserole can be a versatile dish that appeals to various tastes. For a balanced meal, serve it with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad beautifully complements the hearty flavors of the casserole. Additionally, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.

If you’re in the mood for something a bit bolder, try serving it alongside a comforting side like mashed potatoes or seasoned rice. These starchy sides will round out your meal and keep everyone satisfied.

For an extra layer of flavor, incorporate a classic dish like Shipwreck Casserole. It offers a hearty mix of flavors that can pair well. The options are endless, allowing you to personalize your dining experience with ease and creativity.

Storage Tips for Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

Proper storage of your Simple Ground Beef Casserole is key to enjoying its flavors and preventing waste. First, allow the casserole to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This step is crucial as it prevents condensation, which can make your dish soggy. Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing for convenient reheating throughout the week.

If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. You can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

For an exciting twist, try pairing your leftovers with a delicious side like creamy corn casserole. This pairing not only complements the flavors but also adds variety to your meal! Whether reheating or freezing, these storage tips will help maintain the quality of your Simple Ground Beef Casserole, ensuring each serving is as delightful as the first.

Variations on Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

Elevate your basic ground beef casserole by adding a variety of ingredients. For a delicious twist, incorporate some broccoli and rice, similar to this teriyaki chicken skillet casserole. You can also experiment with spices or mix in cheese for extra creaminess. Each variation transforms this hearty dish into something uniquely delightful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is a Simple Ground Beef Casserole?

A simple ground beef casserole is a hearty and convenient dish that combines ground beef with various ingredients, such as vegetables, cheese, and a binding sauce or pasta. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners because it’s easy to assemble and often requires minimal preparation time. Many enjoy how it can be customized, making it a family favorite.

How do I make it healthier?

You can enhance the nutritional profile of your simple ground beef casserole by incorporating more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Additionally, opting for lean ground beef or using turkey instead can reduce the fat content. Consider using whole grain pasta or brown rice for added fiber.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Absolutely! One of the great benefits of a ground beef casserole is that it can be made ahead of time. You can assemble all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is especially convenient for busy nights. Alternatively, you can prepare a large batch and freeze portions for later use.

What side dishes pair well with it?

To complement your simple ground beef casserole, consider serving a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or a light side of roasted potatoes can also enhance the meal. For a creative twist, try pairing it with an easy creamy corn casserole for a comforting dining experience.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can certainly use other meats. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives function well in a casserole. Each provides a slightly different flavor and texture, allowing you to experiment based on your preferences.

What are some variations of this recipe?

The versatility of a simple ground beef casserole allows for numerous variations. You can experiment with different spices, sauces, or cheese blends to create unique flavor combinations. For instance, adding taco seasoning can transform it into a Tex-Mex style dish, while incorporating Italian herbs creates a delicious Italian version.

Simple Ground Beef Casserole: Easy Meal for Busy Nights!

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for family dinners. It combines pasta, ground beef, and cheese for a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound uncooked penne

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef

1/2 medium onion chopped

1 clove garlic minced

1.5 cups marinara sauce

Salt & pepper to taste

1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked penne, mixing until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.