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.
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
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
In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned.
Drain excess grease.
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.
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
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
Serving Suggestions
Green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted broccoli or green beans
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Pickles on the side (retro comfort move)
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.