Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to bring back nostalgic memories of family dinners. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with different vegetables and seasonings, making it a go-to meal for any night of the week.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Classic Ground Beef Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare 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.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, the ground beef and tomato mixture, and the sour cream. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Pasta: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly while baking in the oven.
- Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blends, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, for a different flavor profile.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the ground beef mixture for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Spicy Casserole: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Replace the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning and use a Mexican cheese blend for a delicious twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a creamy tomato sauce topped with melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and enjoy a taste of classic comfort food.
Happy cooking!
