There’s just something about the warmth and comfort of a casserole, isn’t there? It’s like a big hug on a plate! This hearty ground beef casserole is definitely one of my all-time favorite ground beef recipes for dinner. It’s so satisfying, packed with flavors that make your taste buds dance, and the best part? It comes together in just about 45 minutes! I love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight, and it’s always a hit with my family. Plus, you can throw in any extra veggies you have lying around for a little twist. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked rice

How to Prepare This Ground Beef Casserole

Now, let’s dive into how to whip up this delicious ground beef casserole! It’s super straightforward, which is exactly what I love about it. Grab a skillet, and let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key because you want that casserole bubbling and golden by the time it’s done!
2. While the oven is heating, take a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add your pound of ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You’ll love the smell of the garlic filling your kitchen!
3. Next, add in the can of diced tomatoes (juices and all), drained kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Now, it’s time to mix in those 3 cups of cooked rice! This will help thicken things up and make it super filling. Give it another good stir until everything is evenly mixed.
5. Transfer the hearty mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it generously with the shredded cheddar cheese—because more cheese is always a good idea!
6. Pop that casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is all melted and bubbly, creating a beautiful golden crust on top.
7. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty Flavors: The combination of ground beef, spices, and cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will love digging into this cheesy, meaty goodness.
• Healthy Options: You can easily swap in leaner meats or add more veggies to make it even healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Success

To make sure your ground beef casserole turns out perfect every time, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips for you! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference.

• Don’t rush the browning: Make sure to brown the ground beef properly. This step adds so much flavor, so take those 5-7 minutes to get it nice and golden!
• Use day-old rice: If you have leftover rice, use it! Day-old rice holds up better and absorbs flavors beautifully. It’s a great way to elevate the dish!
• Cheese, cheese, cheese! Don’t be shy with the cheese! A generous layer on top not only adds flavor but also gives that deliciously gooey texture we all love.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your family’s taste. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños!
• Cover with foil: If you find that the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to keep it from burning while the inside cooks through.
• Let it rest: Remember to let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps everything set up nicely and makes serving easier!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a casserole that’s not just good, but absolutely fantastic. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to have fun with it!

Variations of Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Casserole

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this ground beef casserole! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:

• Turkey Twist: Substitute ground turkey for the beef for a leaner option. It’s just as delicious and perfect if you’re keeping an eye on fat content!
• Veggie Delight: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and color. They’ll blend right in and add a fresh touch to the dish.
• Southwestern Style: Add black beans instead of kidney beans and mix in some corn salsa for a zesty, southwestern vibe. Top with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
• Cheesy Broccoli: Stir in some steamed broccoli florets before baking. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies, and the cheese makes everything better!
• Pasta Casserole: Swap out the rice for cooked pasta like penne or rotini. This gives a whole new twist and makes it a fun pasta bake!
• Italian Style: Mix in Italian seasoning, swap the cheddar for mozzarella, and add a layer of marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired casserole that’s sure to please!

These variations not only keep dinner exciting, but they also allow you to customize this casserole to your liking. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftovers are one of the best parts of this ground beef casserole! It stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days to come. Here’s how to keep it fresh and reheat it perfectly:

First, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Trust me, it’ll still taste amazing!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it’s well wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It should last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish (if it’s not already) and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly. No one wants a cold center, right?

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just pop a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every delicious bite of your ground beef casserole just like it was freshly made! Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this hearty ground beef casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what to expect:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 30g

This casserole is not only filling but also provides a good amount of protein, making it a great choice for dinner. Enjoy knowing that you’re serving up something hearty and satisfying!

FAQ About Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Casserole

Can I use frozen ground beef for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can even cook it straight from frozen, but it’ll take a bit longer to brown.

What can I substitute for the kidney beans?
If kidney beans aren’t your favorite, you can swap them for black beans or pinto beans. Both work wonderfully in this casserole and add their own unique flavor!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’ll be chilled.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and a little golden on top. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife in the center; it should come out hot!

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite vegetables. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

Ground Beef Recipes for Dinner Casserole: 7 Comforting Delights

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A hearty ground beef casserole perfect for dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
• 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups cooked rice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic.
3. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix in cooked rice.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
8. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
• Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: ground beef recipes for dinner casserole