Ground Beef Casserole – The Old-Fashioned Dinner That Always Shows Up When You Need It

There’s a reason ground beef casseroles have survived every food trend. They’re warm, filling, budget-friendly, and built for real life — busy nights, hungry families, and leftovers that taste even better the next day.

This Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of recipe you can make without thinking too hard: seasoned beef, tender pasta, a creamy tomato-cheese sauce, and that golden bubbly top that makes everyone peek into the oven early.

It’s simple comfort. And it works every time.

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Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (elbow, rotini, or shells)

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)

• 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Optional: 1 cup frozen corn or peas

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Instructions

1) Preheat

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2) Cook Pasta

Boil pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3) Brown the Beef

1. In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned.

2. Drain excess grease.

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4) Make the Sauce

Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer 3–5 minutes.

5) Combine

In a large bowl, mix:

• cooked pasta

• beef sauce

• sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheese
  Add veggies if using.

6) Bake

Pour into baking dish, top with remaining cheese.
Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

7) Rest & Serve

Rest 10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.

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Why This Casserole Works

• Ground beef + pasta makes it hearty

• Sour cream adds creaminess without complicated sauces

• Tomato base keeps it flavorful

• Cheese topping makes it irresistible

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Tips for the Best Ground Beef Casserole

• Don’t overcook the pasta (it bakes more in the oven)

• Use sharp cheddar for more flavor

• Add a splash of broth if it seems too thick

• Want a crunchy top? Add buttered breadcrumbs

• For extra depth: add Worcestershire sauce to the beef

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Serving Suggestions

• Green salad with vinaigrette

• Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Pickles on the side (retro comfort move)

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FAQ – Ground Beef Casserole

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 10–15 minutes to baking time.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze baked portions up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat covered.

Can I swap the pasta?

Yes — any short pasta works. You can also use cooked rice or potatoes.