Casserole With Ground Beef: A Hearty and Easy Dinner Recipe

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients into a single, easy-to-make dish. If you’re wondering what to make with ground beef tonight, this ground meat casserole recipe is a perfect choice. Loaded with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and tender potatoes, it’s a meal the whole family will love.

This easy casserole with ground beef is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying dish that feeds a crowd. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious, homemade dinner without hassle. Follow this step-by-step guide to make the best ground beef casserole for dinner.

What Makes My Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Unique?

This is not your average ground beef casserole. What makes my recipe stand out is the combination of flavors and textures that turn a simple dish into something special. Instead of just layering beef and potatoes, I add a creamy cheese sauce, aromatic herbs, and a touch of spice to elevate the taste.

I also use a combination of fresh and pantry ingredients to ensure depth in flavor while keeping things easy to prepare. Unlike other casserole dishes with ground beef, my version incorporates a crispy topping that adds a satisfying crunch. With the right balance of protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is incredibly easy to assemble and can feed many.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

To make this easy casserole recipe, you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (100% halal)
• 2 cups diced potatoes (or substitute with hash browns)
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for extra heartiness)
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup (halal-certified)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)

Cheesy Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)

For Garnish:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sour cream (halal-certified)

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap potatoes for pasta or egg noodles for a different texture.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables and nutrients.
• Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Try a cornbread topping instead of breadcrumbs for a unique twist.

Ground Beef Casserole Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil to prevent sticking. Dice your potatoes, chop the onions and bell peppers, and set everything aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and add the chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Mix in the Other Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cream of mushroom soup. If using cooked rice, add it now and mix well to combine all the flavors. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Spread the diced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the ground beef mixture over the potatoes and spread it out evenly. Top with a generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and serve with a dollop of sour cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Ground Beef Casserole

• Skipping the pre-cook step for vegetables can leave them undercooked in the final dish.
• Not draining the excess fat from the ground beef makes the casserole greasy.
• Overcooking the casserole can dry out the ingredients.
• Using too much liquid will make the casserole soggy.

Ground Beef Casserole Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
• Add a side salad for a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
• Use a cast iron skillet for baking and serve directly for a rustic presentation.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

This dish pairs well with steamed green beans, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes.
For a classic touch, serve with cornbread or dinner rolls.
If serving for a gathering, present in individual ramekins for a fancy touch.

Extra Recipe Tips for Ground Beef Casserole

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

What can I make with a pound of ground beef?

This ground beef casserole is an excellent option, but you can also try beef and noodles, beef and rice, or beef and mashed potatoes.

What is in cowboy casserole?

Cowboy casserole usually contains ground beef, tater tots, cheese, and a creamy sauce.

Why is it called a John Wayne casserole?

John Wayne casserole was named after the famous actor and includes layers of meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This hearty and satisfying ground beef casserole is one of the best easy meals with ground beef for busy families.
Packed with flavor and simple to make, it’s a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!