Ground Beef Casserole

Name: Ground Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish that brings the family together.

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:30:41.517Z

This Ground Beef Casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's easy to prepare, filling, and packed with flavor. Your family will love it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A comforting blend of flavors that warms your soul
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Comforting Family Favorite

Ground beef casserole is more than just a meal; it's a comforting hug on a plate. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, providing warmth and satisfaction. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike. The hearty ingredients come together beautifully, making it a go-to recipe that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

What sets this casserole apart is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, switch to a different type of protein, or experiment with various spices, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability ensures that you can whip up a delicious dish every time, regardless of what you have on hand.

Meal Prep Made Easy

In today's fast-paced world, meal prep is essential for maintaining a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. This ground beef casserole is perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble it a day ahead and simply pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat. It also stores well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for leftovers throughout the week.

Not only does this dish save you time in the kitchen, but it also minimizes food waste. By using common pantry staples like canned tomatoes and beans, you can create a nourishing meal that doesn't require special trips to the grocery store. Plus, you'll find that the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making your leftovers something to look forward to.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the best features of ground beef casserole is how easily it can be customized. Consider adding seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to enhance both flavor and nutrition. You might also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic taste. The key is to let your creativity shine while ensuring the casserole remains hearty and satisfying.

For those looking to make the dish even healthier, consider swapping the ground beef for lean turkey or a plant-based protein. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white rice can boost the fiber content and add a nutty flavor. No matter how you choose to customize it, this casserole remains a family favorite that brings everyone together at the dinner table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious casserole.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your ground beef casserole experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole. You might also want to offer some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.

For a fun twist, you can also serve the casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These toppings not only add flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish, making it perfect for special occasions or family dinners.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover ground beef casserole, it’s essential to store it properly to maintain its deliciousness. Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Stored this way, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches.

When it comes to reheating, the best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be mindful of not overheating, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.

Nutritional Information

Ground beef casserole is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal option. With protein from the ground beef and kidney beans, carbohydrates from the rice, and vitamins from the tomatoes and onions, this casserole delivers essential nutrients in every bite. It's a great way to fuel your family for busy days ahead.

For those monitoring their calorie intake or looking to make healthier choices, consider using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables can increase the fiber content and lower the overall calories without sacrificing heartiness. Enjoy this dish guilt-free, knowing it's both nourishing and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this hearty dish.