Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that’s sure to please a crowd, this Ground Beef Casserole is just the ticket! This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or those cozy family gatherings where everyone gathers around the table. I love how the combination of flavors melds, creating a warm hug in a casserole dish. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this casserole ready in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a cheesy casserole! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still satisfying those picky eaters.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Comfort food at its finest: The combination of ground beef, creamy cauliflower rice, and gooey cheese makes each bite feel like a warm embrace.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this delicious Ground Beef Casserole, you’ll need items that are easy to find and perfect for cooking up something special.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 6 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 10 ounces frozen cauliflower rice (cooked according to the directions on the bag)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon butter (room temperature)
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (if needed)
• 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese (or any other shredded cheese that you have/prefer)

Variations

One of the best things about casseroles is their flexibility! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
• Change the cheese: Use whatever shredded cheese you have on hand; cheddar or Monterey Jack would work wonderfully too!

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375˚F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, heat up your olive oil. Add the diced onions and let them cook for about 2 minutes until they soften. Then stir in the garlic for another 20 seconds. This step layers flavor into your dish—those aromatics are essential!

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Next, add in your ground beef along with Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until it’s completely browned. This step not only cooks the meat but also allows all those spices to infuse into every bite.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Now it’s time to add the fresh baby spinach! Depending on how big your skillet is, you might need to add it in batches. Stir frequently for about one minute until all the spinach is wilted. It’s always nice to sneak more greens into our meals!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat and drain any excess liquid from the skillet. Set this aside for now. In a separate baking dish (9×13 inches), combine cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil. Mix until creamy—if things aren’t melting together well, add a splash of milk to help out.

Step 6: Assemble Your Casserole

Add that delicious beef mixture into your baking dish with the cauliflower rice combo. Stir everything together until well incorporated. Top with shredded cheese—it’s going to get all melty and irresistible!

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for about 22 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. The smell will be amazing!

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once done baking, remove it from the oven and let it stand for about 7 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely so you can cut perfect squares without everything spilling out.

Enjoy every bite of this yummy Ground Beef Casserole with family or friends—you’ll be going back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Casserole

This ground beef casserole is not just easy to make but also offers a chance to customize it to your taste! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use lean ground beef – Choosing lean ground beef helps reduce the fat content in your casserole while still providing delicious flavor. It also prevents the dish from becoming greasy.
• Don’t skip the seasoning – Properly seasoning your beef and vegetables enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices that you love!
• Cook spinach thoroughly – Make sure to cook the spinach just until wilted; this keeps it vibrant and adds nutrients without overpowering the dish. It also helps maintain a nice texture.
• Check for creaminess – If your mixture feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add more milk or even vegetable broth. This ensures that every bite remains creamy and comforting.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 7-10 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together nicely, making it easier to cut and serve.

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Presenting this delicious ground beef casserole can elevate your dining experience! Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• A dollop of Greek yogurt – Swirling some Greek yogurt on each serving gives a creamy touch that balances out the richness of the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli not only complements the dish but also adds nutrients and a lovely crunch.
• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delightful way to soak up any extra sauce from your casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini makes for a colorful and healthy addition to your meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your ground beef casserole will surely impress family and friends while delighting their taste buds! Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the casserole has cooled completely.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• If using a microwave, heat individual portions on medium power until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Add a splash of milk if the casserole appears dry after thawing or reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this comforting dish!

Can I use other types of meat in this Ground Beef Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still enjoying the same delicious flavors.

How can I make this Ground Beef Casserole vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I add more vegetables to my Ground Beef Casserole?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced tomatoes can be added for added nutrition and flavor.

What is a good side dish to serve with Ground Beef Casserole?

A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli would complement this casserole beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef Casserole—it truly is a cozy dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists! Happy cooking!