Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a quick and easy dinner option that combines lean ground beef, marinara sauce, penne pasta, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan meal requires minimal preparation and cooking time. With its rich, hearty flavor, it makes for a filling and comforting meal the whole family will love. The dish is fully customizable – feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the cheese for a different twist. It’s a convenient and satisfying way to enjoy a homemade casserole without the hassle. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal to feed a crowd, this ground beef casserole recipe is a go-to for convenience and taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1.5 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
2. Cook Pasta:
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions for about 10 minutes. The pasta should be slightly undercooked to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook Ground Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, sautéing for 10 minutes, breaking up the beef as it cooks. Once the beef starts to brown, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
4. Prepare Beef Sauce:
   Stir in the marinara sauce and heat until warmed through. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Assemble Casserole:
   In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked penne with the beef mixture. Stir to combine evenly. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. For extra cheesiness, you can stir in an additional 1/2 cup of cheese into the pasta mixture before topping with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake:
   Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty and delicious meal!

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this ground beef casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: With a combination of pasta, beef, and cheese, this casserole is both satisfying and comforting.
• Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables or seasonings to fit your tastes.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required, as everything is cooked in one dish.

Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Be sure not to overcook the pasta. Since it will bake in the oven, it’s best to undercook it slightly.
• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
• Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, stir in some additional cheese inside the casserole before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat: Try swapping ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the casserole.
• Cheese: Use mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
• Sauce: If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based pasta sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, once baked and cooled, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until heated through.

What if I don’t have penne pasta?
You can use any type of pasta, such as rigatoni, rotini, or ziti, in place of penne.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetables: Add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the casserole for extra nutrition.
• Toppings: Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of freshness.

Suggestions for Presentation

• Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation.
• For a fancier presentation, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top before serving and add a few sprigs of fresh basil or parsley.

---

This recipe is a simple, comforting dinner that is sure to please the whole family!