There’s something about a cheesy, baked casserole that hits the spot when you’re craving comfort food. This cheesy baked beef casserole is a rich and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With layers of savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce,
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Beef and Veggies: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Combine with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture with the cooked pasta, stirring well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta and beef mixture. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness of this cheesy baked beef casserole—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
