Dinner

Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

ByMarina Montclair January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

This Ground Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory beef, tender pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce topped with melted cheese, it’s sure to please the whole family.

A close-up of a thick square slice of lasagna on a white plate, showing four clear layers: the bottom layer is a mixture of cooked rice and ground beef in a brown sauce with a slightly oily texture; above it is a creamy white layer that looks soft and smooth; the third layer is a bright, melted orange-yellow cheese with a glossy surface; the top layer is browned cheese with some small golden crispy spots, sprinkled generously with fresh green parsley bits. The plate is on a white marbled surface with some scattered parsley around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240g) tomato sauce
1 cup (240ml) beef broth
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups cooked pasta (elbows, rotini, or any short pasta)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp olive oil
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add the sour cream and stir until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
Step 6: Fold in the cooked pasta, making sure it is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 9: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a twist.
Substitute cooked rice or quinoa in place of pasta for a gluten-free version.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or cover and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square piece of layered casserole on a white plate, showing three clear layers: the bottom layer made of cooked ground beef mixed with rice in brown and beige tones; the middle layer is creamy white, soft and thick, likely a cheese or sauce; the top layer is golden yellow, melted, and slightly browned cheese with green herb flakes sprinkled on top; small fresh green herbs are scattered around the plate, with a shiny, juicy look to the meat and cheese. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a grey cloth under the plate, and a soft focus background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baked cold.