{"id":5759,"date":"2026-03-25T20:26:48","date_gmt":"2026-03-25T20:26:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/recipes.hopemakers.online\/?p=1805"},"modified":"2026-03-25T20:26:48","modified_gmt":"2026-03-25T20:26:48","slug":"ground-beef-casserole","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/recipes.bollyent.com\/?p=5759","title":{"rendered":"Ground Beef Casserole"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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This Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate weeknight lifesaver\u2014savory ground beef, tender pasta or rice, and melted cheese baked in a rich tomato-cream sauce. It\u2019s like a cross between lasagna, goulash, and a cozy casserole\u2014all in one dish, with minimal prep and maximum comfort.
Ready in under 30 minutes (plus baking), it\u2019s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for busy families.
Why You\u2019ll Love This Recipe
🥩 Ready in 30 minutes\u2014one dish!
💛 Only 7 simple ingredients
💸 Costs under $8\u2014feeds 6 generously
🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free
Ingredients You\u2019ll Need
(9×13-inch baking dish)
1\u00bd lbs (680g) ground beef (85% lean)
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (or rice, egg noodles, or penne)
1 (15 oz) jar marinara sauce (or 2 cups homemade tomato sauce)
1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom or celery soup
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional but recommended)
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: \u00bd cup sour cream or frozen peas\/carrots
💡 Pro Tips:
Don\u2019t pre-cook the pasta\u2014it bakes perfectly in the sauce.
Drain excess fat after browning beef to prevent greasiness.
Use leftover cooked rice or pasta? Reduce liquid slightly and bake uncovered.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Savory, Cheesy, Foolproof)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Brown the Beef
    In a skillet, cook ground beef (and onion, if using) over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain fat.
    Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Mix Everything Together
    In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, condensed soup, and 1 cup cheese.
    Mix well\u2014if using rice, add 1\u00bd cups water or broth.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Bake to Perfection
    Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
    Cover with foil; bake at 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C) for 25\u201330 minutes (pasta) or 45\u201350 minutes (rice).
    Remove foil; sprinkle with extra cheese.
    Bake 5\u201310 minutes more, until bubbly and golden.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. Rest & Serve
    Let sit 5\u201310 minutes\u2014the casserole will set and be easier to slice.
    Serving Suggestions
    🥗 With sides:
    Simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread
    🍷 Drink pairings:
    Iced tea, lager beer, or a light red wine (Chianti)
    Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
    Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days\u2014flavor deepens overnight!
    Reheat: Cover with foil; warm in 350\u00b0F oven for 20 minutes. Add splash of broth if dry.
    Freeze: Freeze unbaked casserole up to 2 months. Thaw overnight; bake as directed.
    Frequently Asked Questions
    Q: Gluten-free?
    A: Yes! Use GF pasta and GF-certified soup.
    Q: Can I use ground turkey or plant-based meat?
    A: Absolutely\u2014just add 1 tbsp olive oil when browning for moisture.
    Q: Too dry?
    A: Add \u00bc\u2013\u00bd cup broth or water before baking.
    Q: No condensed soup?
    A: Make a quick roux: melt 2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp flour, whisk in 1\u00bd cups broth + \u00bd cup milk, simmer until thickened.
    ❤️ The Heart of the Dish
    This isn\u2019t just dinner\u2014it\u2019s a warm hug in casserole form. It\u2019s what you make when time is short but love is abundant.
    So brown that beef, toss those noodles, and bake with care. Because the best meals aren\u2019t fancy\u2014they\u2019re hearty, cheesy, and made with love.
    \u201cGood casserole doesn\u2019t need a recipe\u2014it just needs kindness, and someone hungry.\u201d 🥩🧀✨<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

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