Classic Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
This classic cheesy ground beef casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for weeknights. Featuring ground beef, pasta, mixed vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, it's a family-friendly dish that's sure to please.
Equipment
- large skillet or Dutch oven
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.75 ounce) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 can (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 3 cups cooked pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet, then add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, brown it completely, and drain any excess grease. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
- Stir in condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and undrained diced tomatoes; bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked pasta, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Transfer half of the beef and pasta mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, then sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese and spread the remaining mixture over it.
- Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the cheese is golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Notes
For best results, use a pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or egg noodles. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference.