Cheesy Beef Casserole Recipe

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Cheesy Beef Casserole Recipe 🧀🍖

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This Cheesy Beef Casserole is a savory, comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. It’s filled with ground beef, melted cheese, and a tangy sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. Here’s the full recipe with tips, modifications, and a Q&A section to make sure it turns out perfectly!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack) 🧀
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup salsa or tomato sauce 🍅
  • 2 cups cooked pasta or diced potatoes (optional, for a heartier casserole) 🍝🥔
  • 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for some heat) 🌶️
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish) 🌱

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook Beef Mixture:
    • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
    • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, chili powder, and paprika.
    • Drain any excess grease from the skillet and stir everything together.
  3. Assemble Casserole:
    • If you’re using pasta or diced potatoes, spread them evenly at the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly over the pasta or potatoes.
    • Spread sour cream and salsa (or tomato sauce) over the beef mixture.
    • Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese (or your cheese mix).
  4. Bake:
    • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish & Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and flavor.
    • Let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set before serving.
See also  Spanish Squid Rice 

Pro Tips for Success:

  • Use cooked potatoes or pasta for a more filling meal.
  • Make it spicier: Add more chili powder or jalapeños for extra heat.
  • Cheese mix: You can use a combination of different cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a cheesy, gooey effect.
  • Dairy-free version: Substitute sour cream with non-dairy yogurt or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.

❓ Q&A Section:

❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

❓ Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just be sure to cook the poultry until browned and seasoned.

❓ Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes very well! After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

❓ Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, colby, or even a Mexican cheese blend for more flavor. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.

❓ How do I prevent the casserole from getting too dry?
A: Make sure to use enough salsa or tomato sauce to keep the casserole moist. You can also add a bit more sour cream for extra creaminess. If the casserole seems too dry when baking, you can cover it with foil for the first half of baking and uncover it to brown the cheese.

See also  Mediterranean-Style Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs 

❓ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, corn, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the beef mixture to cook them through.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Protein: ~20g
  • Carbs: ~25g (depends on whether you use pasta or potatoes)
  • Fats: ~20g
  • Fiber: ~3g

Serve With:

  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the casserole.
  • Tortilla Chips: For an extra crunch, serve with crispy tortilla chips.

Enjoy Your Cheesy Beef Casserole! 😋

This cheesy beef casserole is a perfect combination of hearty beef, creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, and melty cheese. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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