Cheesy Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly tender.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth into the skillet with the beef mixture. Add the dried oregano and basil, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the beef mixture, stirring until well combined. Let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Follow with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If you like a crispier top, you can place the casserole under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a touch of color and freshness.
This cheesy beef casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines hearty ground beef with pasta and plenty of melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy your meal!
