Description
Cheesy Beef Casserole
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a baking dish, layer half the beef mixture, followed by half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Next, stir in the tomato sauce thoroughly, reduce the heat, and let the mixture simmer for a full 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread exactly half of the beef mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle one cup of the total shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese blend over this layer. Carefully repeat with the remaining beef and then the remaining cheese. Place the dish in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The casserole is done when the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and has golden spots.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp Caesar salad also make excellent accompaniments. For a low-carb option, serve over a bed of fresh spinach or cauliflower rice.
How-to Summary
Brown beef with veggies and seasonings. Stir in tomato sauce and simmer. In a baking dish, create two layers: beef mixture followed by cheese. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute work well. Adjust cooking times and seasoning as needed.
Can I freeze the cheesy beef casserole? Absolutely. Assemble and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. You can also freeze leftovers in portions for up to 3 months.
My casserole is watery. What happened? This is often due to vegetables releasing moisture. Ensure you cook the onion and pepper until fully softened and the liquid has evaporated before adding the tomato sauce. Draining the beef thoroughly is also key.
Can I add other ingredients? Definitely. Consider adding cooked pasta, rice, black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes. For extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin with the garlic powder.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid skipping the step of draining the cooked ground beef, as excess fat can make the casserole greasy. Do not undercook the vegetables in the skillet, as they won’t soften further in the oven. Resist the urge to overmix the layers; gentle layering ensures distinct textures. Finally, do not cover the casserole with foil while baking, as this will prevent the cheese from achieving a perfectly golden, bubbly top.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Casserole is the ultimate reliable dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd. Its simple method, customizable ingredients, and crowd-pleasing cheesy flavor make it a permanent addition to any recipe collection. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a delicious, comforting meal every single time. Enjoy the warm, satisfying results of this classic family favorite.