Beef and Cheese Casserole 🧀🥩
Introduction
This Beef and Cheese Casserole is a classic comfort food recipe that combines tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, tomato sauce, and lots of melted cheese to create a delicious, hearty meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. Warm, cheesy, and full of flavor — this casserole will make everyone at the table happy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked pasta (optional)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Stir in the bell pepper and tomato sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- If using pasta, mix it with the beef sauce until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Methods
- Baking: This is the classic way — bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Stovetop: If you don’t have an oven, you can cover the pan and let the cheese melt slowly.
- Air Fryer: Smaller casseroles can be cooked faster in an air fryer for a crispier top.
- Layering: You can layer pasta, sauce, and cheese for a lasagna-like effect.
History
Casseroles became popular in the United States during the early 20th century. They were originally created as a way to combine meats, vegetables, and starch into one convenient dish. Over time, casseroles became a staple of family dinners and potlucks because of their simplicity and comforting flavor.
Benefits
- High in protein from beef and cheese.
- Great source of energy from pasta and vegetables.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Can be made ahead and reheated later.
Information
– Servings: 6 to 8
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 25 minutes
– Total Time: 45 minutes
– Difficulty: Easy
– Type: Main Course
Conclusion
This Beef and Cheese Casserole is more than just a dish — it’s a warm, cheesy hug on a plate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and full stomachs. Once you make it, it’ll become a family favorite in no time!
Lovers
This recipe is loved by kids, adults, and cheese lovers everywhere. It’s also popular among busy families who need something delicious and easy to make after a long day.
Extra Method (Optional)
For extra flavor, try adding layers of mashed potatoes, cooked rice, or different cheeses like gouda or parmesan. You can also add jalapeños for a spicy twist 🌶️.
Final Conclusion
If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying, and cheesy dish, this Beef and Cheese Casserole is the perfect choice. Make it once and you’ll fall in love with every gooey bite 🧀❤️.