Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Picture this: It’s 6 PM, your stomach’s growling like a hangry bear, and you need dinner now. Enter the Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole—your savior.
No fancy techniques, no obscure ingredients, just layers of beef, cheese, and carbs that’ll make your taste buds throw a party.
This isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a baking dish. And the best part? You probably have everything you need in your pantry already.
Why settle for takeout when you can whip up something this good in under an hour?
What Makes This Recipe So Good
This casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor—like a cheeseburger and lasagna had a delicious baby.
The combo of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and tender pasta creates a texture that’s downright addictive.
Plus, it’s customizable. Want it spicier? Add jalapeños.
Extra cheesy? Go wild. It’s also a one-dish wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash.
IMO, that’s a win.
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Course: Beef, Dinner6
servings15
minutes30
minutes450
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional, but highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Pro tip: Use butter for extra flavor.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, but undercook it by 1–2 minutes. It’ll finish cooking in the oven.
- Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: Let it simmer for 5 minutes. FYI, this is where the magic happens.
- Mix the cooked pasta, beef mixture, sour cream, and half the cheeses in a large bowl. Spread into the baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle Parmesan if using. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Unless you enjoy molten cheese burns—no judgment.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through. Freezing?
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Benefits of This Recipe
Besides being delicious, this casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and makes great leftovers.
The protein-packed beef and cheese keep you full, while the pasta satisfies carb cravings. It’s also easy to scale up for potlucks or down for solo dinners. Basically, it’s the Swiss Army knife of comfort food.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta. It’ll turn mushy in the oven.
Al dente is the way.
- Skipping the sour cream. It adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Using lean beef. 80/20 keeps it juicy. Don’t fear the fat.
- Not letting it rest. Cutting into it too soon = cheesy lava everywhere.
Alternatives
Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
For a veggie boost, add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Replace cheddar with pepper jack for a kick. The world is your cheesy oyster.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely!
Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the best cheese blend?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but try Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Colby for fun twists. Just avoid pre-shredded cheese—it’s coated in anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as well.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but the pasta texture might change slightly.
Reheat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Why is my casserole dry?
You probably overcooked the pasta or didn’t use enough sauce. Next time, reserve a bit of pasta water or add extra tomato sauce.
Is this keto-friendly?
Not as written, but swap pasta for cauliflower rice and use full-fat dairy to make it low-carb. You’re welcome, keto warriors.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and stupidly easy to make.
Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for yourself, it’s a guaranteed hit. So grab that skillet, preheat the oven, and get ready for cheesy perfection. Your future self (and your stomach) will thank you.
