The aroma of a warm, bubbling Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef wafts through the air like a hug from your grandma—if only hugs were edible. This dish is the epitome of cozy comfort food that wraps you in its cheesy embrace after a long day. As you lift the lid off the casserole dish, an explosion of flavors greets you; tender ground beef mingles with creamy sauce and crispy toppings that create a symphony of textures.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen ground beef for this casserole?
- What can I substitute for ground beef?
- How long can I store this casserole?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I make this comforting masterpiece, I’m transported back to chilly evenings spent at home with my family. The laughter around the dinner table and the clattering of forks against plates still echo in my heart. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or just another hectic weeknight, this casserole is perfect for any occasion when you need a little warmth—both literally and figuratively.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful casserole comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavor profile combines savory beef with creamy goodness that pleases everyone’s taste buds.
- Its beautiful layers create an eye-catching centerpiece for any table setting.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what ingredients you have on hand.
I remember one particular evening when I served this comforting casserole to my friends during game night. Their delighted reactions made me feel like a culinary rock star!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor; aim for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent to enhance its natural sugars.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the flavor; use minced garlic for a robust taste.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is your secret weapon for creamy goodness; opt for low-sodium versions if preferred.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrients; no need to thaw before adding!
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar creates a tantalizing gooey topping that everyone loves.
- Breadcrumbs: These give a delightful crunch on top; seasoned breadcrumbs work wonders here!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First up: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a sturdy baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray. This will help your delicious creation slide right out when it’s time to serve.
Next: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef along with your chopped onion. Cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onion becomes translucent—about 5-7 minutes should do it.
Then: Add minced garlic into the skillet and stir until fragrant—just about 30 seconds will release that lovely aroma we all adore. Drain any excess fat from the pan; we want our casserole tasty but not swimming in grease.
After that: Stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup along with about two cups of frozen mixed vegetables. Mix everything well until all veggies are coated in creamy goodness—trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!
Now comes the fun part: Pour your mixture into the greased baking dish evenly. Sprinkle about one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top followed by half a cup of breadcrumbs for that delightful crunchy layer.
Finally: Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Keep an eye out—you want it hot enough so that your kitchen smells divine but not so long that it turns into an unintentional science experiment!
And there you have it! Your mouthwatering Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef is ready to be devoured by hungry friends or family members who’ll be begging for seconds!
You Must Know
- A comforting casserole with ground beef is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish.
- The rich aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone rush to the table.
- Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef first, then layer in your vegetables and sauce while it simmers. This order ensures flavors meld beautifully while keeping everything from getting soggy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different meats like turkey or chicken, or try adding black beans for extra protein. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Mix in fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor.
- Ensure your casserole dish is well-greased to avoid sticking when serving.
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my kids fighting over the last spoonful, declaring me the “Casserole Queen” for my secret blend of spices that turned dinner into a family favorite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen ground beef for this casserole?
Yes, defrost it completely before cooking for even browning and texture.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats work wonderfully as alternatives.
How long can I store this casserole?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about three days or freeze it for up to three months.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Savor the warmth of this Comforting Casserole with Ground Beef, featuring layers of tender beef, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping—perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and onions are translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Drain excess fat, then mix in the cream of mushroom soup and frozen mixed vegetables until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
