Simple Ground Beef Casserole Recipe – Quick, Delicious, & Family-Friendly Dinner Idea!

Table of Contents: Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s quick to prepare? This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is your answer! Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even casual gatherings, this dish combines tender penne pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheddar cheese into one irresistible bake. It’s the ultimate easy hamburger casserole that’s sure to become a household favorite.

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INTRODUCTION: WHY THIS SIMPLE GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE IS A MUST-TRY

When life gets hectic, a satisfying and hassle-free dinner is a lifesaver. That’s where this Simple Ground Beef Casserole shines. This recipe is not only quick to assemble but also bursting with flavors that remind you of home-cooked comfort food. Whether you’re feeding your family after a long day or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

This week night ground beef bake is incredibly versatile. With its rich marinara sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof and delicious.

What makes this casserole stand out is its layers of flavor and texture. The combination of tender penne, seasoned ground beef, and creamy cheese creates a harmonious bite every time. It’s the definition of easy comfort food for family dinners—warm, hearty, and utterly satisfying.

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ALTERNATE NAMES & VARIATIONS

This dish goes by many names depending on regional preferences and family traditions. Some might call it:
– Easy Hamburger Casserole
– Cheesy Beef and Potato Casserole (if you swap pasta for potatoes)
– Ground Beef Pasta Bake

No matter what you call it, the essence remains the same: a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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INGREDIENTS: WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Simple Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

• – 1 pound uncooked penne pasta (or substitute with your favorite pasta)
• – 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• – 1 pound lean ground beef (or use ground turkey for a lighter option)
• – 1/2 medium onion, chopped (adds depth of flavor)
• – 1 clove garlic, minced (for a savory kick)
• – 1.5 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• – Salt & pepper to taste (season generously)
• – 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (for that melty, cheesy goodness)

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STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Follow these easy steps to make this Simple Ground Beef Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked penne pasta and the beef mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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RECIPE CARD QUICK REFERENCE

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole takes just 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal for 4 servings. Each serving contains approximately 450–500 calories, depending on ingredient variations.

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WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS & EXPERT TIPS

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is a winner because it’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with flavor. The combination of pasta, beef, and cheese creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Expert Tips:
– For extra flavor, add a dash of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
– Substitute penne with rotini, fusilli, or even egg noodles for variety.
– Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

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STORAGE, FREEZING, AND REHEATING TIPS

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This week night ground beef bake freezes well. Assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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PEOPLE ALSO ASK

What Can I Add to Ground Beef Casserole for Flavor?

You can enhance the flavor of your Simple Ground Beef Casserole by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning also works wonders.

Can I Use a Different Kind of Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use rotini, fusilli, or even egg noodles for a different texture. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

What Are Good Side Dishes for a Ground Beef Casserole?

Pair this easy hamburger casserole with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or garlic mashed potatoes also complements the dish well.

Can You Freeze Ground Beef Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.

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CONCLUSION

This Simple Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect solution for a quick, comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Give it a try, share your results, and let us know how it turned out!

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YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

– Easy Ground Beef And Potato Casserole Recipe – Comfort Food Dinner Idea!
– Cheesy Hamburger Casserole – Easy & Delicious Family Dinner Idea!
– Easy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Comfort Food Classic!
– Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas – Easy & Delicious Weeknight Dinner!

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