Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole: A Comforting Delight

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a cheesy and flavorful beef casserole. It’s a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. This Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole recipe is the perfect combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and gooey cheese. It’s a one-dish meal that will leave you satisfied and craving for more. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cooked macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the beef mixture

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, red and green bell peppers until they are tender and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients

Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the macaroni and cheese

Gently fold in the cooked macaroni and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. The cheese will melt and create a creamy, cheesy mixture.

Step 5: Prepare the topping

In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. This will create a crispy and flavorful topping for the casserole.

Step 6: Baking the casserole

Transfer the beef mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

Variations

This Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can make a few variations to suit your preferences:

Vegetarian Option:

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat substitute or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.

Spicy Twist:

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. This will give the casserole a spicy kick.

Italian Style:

To give the casserole an Italian twist, add some Italian seasoning and replace the cheddar cheese with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Tips

• For extra flavor, you can brown the ground beef with a tablespoon of olive oil instead of cooking it plain.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole. Bell peppers, carrots, and peas work great in this recipe.
• If you don’t have macaroni, you can use any other pasta shape like penne or rotini.
• Make sure to drain the cooked macaroni well before adding it to the casserole to avoid excess moisture.
• If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking to achieve a golden crust.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings warmth to any gathering. With its flavorful beef and gooey cheese, it’s a recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful and comforting delight.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into individual servings or family-sized portions, and store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses would work well in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts easily and complements the flavors of the casserole.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the cooked macaroni and cheese in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.

Enjoy this Cheesy Baked Beef Casserole and let its savory flavors warm your heart and soul!