Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. With layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and plenty of gooey cheese, it’s filling, affordable, and family-approved. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, freeze, and reheat — making it a great option for meal prep or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 8 oz pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini)

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, divided)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Cook Pasta

• Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.

• Drain and set aside.

Cook Beef Mixture

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

• Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

• Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

• Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Simmer for 10 minutes.

Assemble Casserole

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, beef mixture, and sour cream until combined.

• Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Sprinkle with 1½ cups shredded cheese.

Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

• Top with remaining cheese and bake 5 minutes more until melted.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrition.

• Swap pasta for rice if desired.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze baked casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months.

• Reheat in the oven at 325°F or microwave individual portions.