Protein-Rich Ground Beef Casserole

Nothing warms the heart quite like a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. Ground beef casserole embraces the comforting richness of protein—packing about 22 grams per serving—while filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of savory spices and melted cheese. Whether it’s a rainy night or the perfect weeknight dinner, this dish will have everyone gathering around the table, drawn by that golden cheesy crust. Let’s dive into the art of creating a meal that’s as satisfying to serve as it is to eat!

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How to Make Ground Beef Casserole in 40 Minutes

When it comes to efficient meals, it’s hard to beat a good casserole. With a few fresh ingredients and some clever preparation, you can whip up a hearty ground beef casserole that will have your family asking for seconds. There’s nothing like knowing that dinner is just about 30 minutes away, and you’ll feel like a culinary superstar while keeping it simple.

Ingredient Lineup

To create this savory masterpiece, make sure you have the following:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced orange bell pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon Montreal Steak seasoning or Magic Dust seasoning
• 16 ounces tomato sauce
• 10 ounces can of Red Gold Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles
• 1 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 cups frozen corn
• 2 ounces shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend
• 1 1/2 cups dried macaroni style pasta cooked al dente
• 1 cup shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend
• Sliced green onions for garnish

This lineup ensures layers of flavor and texture that it’s hard to resist!

Step-by-Step Method

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Spray a two-quart casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with onions, bell pepper, and red pepper flakes until the meat is no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Season with Magic Dust or steak seasoning to taste. This step boosts the flavor profile immeasurably.
5. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, and chili powder; bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Then, add the frozen corn and simmer for a few more minutes until heated through.
8. Remove from heat, and stir in the 2 ounces of shredded cheese until melted and gooey.
9. Gently fold in the cooked pasta until evenly combined.
10. Pour everything into the prepared casserole dish and top with the remaining shredded cheese.
11. Bake uncovered for 20-30 minutes or until the cheese is browned and bubbly.
12. Garnish with sliced green onions just before serving for a touch of freshness.

Quick tip: Make sure your pasta is al dente so it retains its chewy texture after baking!

Nutrition Breakdown

This ground beef casserole is a comforting powerhouse, with a serving size of about one cup yielding approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 22 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Fat: 18 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams

This balanced dish has fiber-rich vegetables and protein-packed beef, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.

Perfect Pairings

Serving ground beef casserole is the easy part; pairing it can elevate the meal into something spectacular! Consider offering it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread is also a classic choice for scooping up the savory sauce. This meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an informal gathering with friends.

How to Store It Right

Got leftovers? Excellent! This casserole stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for about 2–3 months. When reheating, consider adding a splash of water or broth to help revive its moistness and prevent it from drying out.

Pro Tips

• Layer Wisely: For a gourmet touch, layer the cheese inside the casserole, not just on top; this allows for gooey goodness with every spoonful.
• Vegetable Power: Sneak in some extra veggies like chopped spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Pasta Variation: Swap out the macaroni for a different pasta shape, such as penne or shells, to change up the texture and presentation.

Flavor Experiments

• Seasonal Twist: In the fall, mix in some pumpkin puree with your tomato sauce for an unexpected, creamy flavor that’s perfect for the season.
• Gourmet Upgrade: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, and add some fresh herbs like basil and thyme for a lighter, herbaceous dish.
• Playful Addition: Stir in some taco seasoning instead of chili spices for a taco-inspired twist, and serve with tortilla chips on the side!

Learn from My Mistakes

1. Overcooking the Pasta: If your macaroni is too soft before baking, it can turn mushy. Always cook it al dente!
2. Skipping Seasoning: A bland casserole is nobody’s friend! Be generous with spices and taste as you go.
3. Not Reading Labels: When using canned tomatoes, check for added salt or sugar; it can really affect the final dish.

Creative Second-Day Ideas

Leftover ground beef casserole is a blessing! Here are a couple of fun ways to enjoy what’s left:

1. Casserole Quesadillas: Spread leftovers onto tortillas, sprinkle with cheese, fold, and grill for a crunchy, cheesy twist on the original.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the casserole, then bake until the peppers are tender.

Quick Questions

Can I make ground beef casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Just avoid baking it until the day of serving for the best texture.

What other meats can I use? Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in this casserole, letting you customize to fit your dietary preferences.

How can I make it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

What cheese can I use instead of Mexican blend? Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack add great flavor—experiment to your heart’s content!

Now you’re armed with all the tips, tricks, and variations to make this ground beef casserole spectacular. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner chef, and watch your family savor every last bite. Enjoy!