Warm up for beef and cheese casserole
This Beef and Cheese Casserole is a hearty staple that unites family and flavor at the dinner table. It is warm, cozy, and irresistibly cheesy. This bubbling meal, which is easy to make and hard to resist, combines perfectly seasoned ground beef, soft pasta, and a golden coating of melted cheese. Every mouthful of this casserole provides comfort food fulfillment, whether you’re cooking for a large group of people or creating simple evening dinners.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or macaroni)
2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a mix)
½ cup sour cream (optional for creaminess)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat Oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add Onion and Garlic: Sauté with beef until translucent, about 2–3 minutes.
Add Tomato Sauce & Seasoning: Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Combine Pasta & Sour Cream: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta with sour cream (if using).
Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta, then beef mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat layers.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy!
Tips & Variations:
Cheese Options: Try provolone, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for more flavor.
Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Add 10 minutes to bake time if cold.
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Sauce Swap: Use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato for a creamy twist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Makes 6 servings):
Calories: 410, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 24g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 12g, Fiber: 3g, Sugars: 5g, Sodium: 680mg