Delicious Angel Beef Casserole (Air Fryer Recipe)

Table of Contents

Introduction:

Angel Beef Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish made with seasoned ground beef, angel hair pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce base. Traditionally oven-baked, this version uses the air fryer for a quicker bake and a golden top layer. The name “Angel” comes from the use of angel hair pasta, which gives the dish a light yet satisfying texture. It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping, and it’s kid-friendly, too!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Air Fry Time: 15–18 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Casserole:

200g (7 oz) angel hair pasta

300g (10.5 oz) ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup marinara or pasta sauce

½ cup sour cream or cream cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

½ cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp dried Italian herbs or oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

Cook the Pasta (7–8 minutes)

Bring salted water to a boil and cook angel hair pasta until al dente (about 3–4 minutes).

Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Cook the Beef Mixture (10 minutes)

In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté onion until soft (2–3 minutes).

Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Cook until browned and crumbled (5–6 minutes).

Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.

See also Air Fryer Pruit’s Vinegar Pie

Assemble the Casserole

In a bowl, mix the cooked angel hair pasta with the egg, sour cream, and ricotta/cottage cheese.

Spread the pasta mixture evenly in an air fryer-safe baking dish (ceramic, metal, or silicone).

Top with the beef and sauce mixture.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Air Fry the Casserole (15–18 minutes)

Preheat air fryer to 180°C (355°F) for 3 minutes.

Place the casserole dish in the air fryer basket.

Air fry at 180°C for 15–18 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Check at 12 minutes and cover loosely with foil if cheese is browning too fast.

Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli.

Add garlic bread or toast on the side for a classic combo.

Tips:

Want more veggies? Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mix.

Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or chili oil.

Can be prepped ahead and air fried later (add 3–5 minutes to air fry time if cold).