Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole

Welcome to our flavorful and hearty recipe for Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole. This delicious dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Packed with layers of tender beef, gooey cheese, and rich tomato sauce, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the beef filling:

1.5 pounds ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the cheese sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

For the casserole:

12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the beef filling

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Add the tomatoes and sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the cheese sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Cook the mixture until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the beef filling on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the beef filling, slightly overlapping them.

Spread a layer of the cheese sauce over the noodles, followed by another layer of the beef filling. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese sauce. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake and serve

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh parsley and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy the layers of beefy goodness and cheesy deliciousness!

Variations

This Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole is quite versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste buds. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option:

If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a meatless ground alternative or use a combination of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. You can also add some spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.

Spicy Twist:

If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the beef filling. You can also experiment with different types of spicy cheeses like pepper jack or habanero cheddar for the cheese sauce.

Tex-Mex Flavors:

To give the casserole a Tex-Mex twist, add some cumin, chili powder, and a can of diced green chilies to the beef filling. Swap the cheddar cheese for a blend of Mexican cheeses like Monterey Jack and queso fresco.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole turns out perfectly:

Use lean ground beef to minimize excess grease in the casserole.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the beef filling, such as mushrooms, carrots, or corn.
Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles before layering them in the casserole. They will continue to cook and soften in the oven.
If you have any leftover casserole, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven.

Conclusion

Layered Beef and Cheese Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the classic combination of beef and cheese in a comforting and delicious way. The layers of flavors and textures make it a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a scrumptious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Bon appétit!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftover casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While lasagna noodles work best for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of pasta. Try using penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni for a fun twist on the classic casserole.

Can I add more cheese?

Of course! If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra cheese to each layer or sprinkle some more on top before baking. The more cheese, the merrier!