There’s nothing quite like a comforting, homemade casserole that brings back warm memories of family dinners at Grandma’s house. This Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s simple to make and packed with layers of goodness.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea or a nostalgic meal to share with loved ones, this easy ground beef casserole is the perfect choice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this casserole a breeze.
✔ Family Favorite – A rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that everyone will love.
✔ Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow or penne)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup cottage cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add the tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and cottage cheese until well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
1. Spread the cooked pasta evenly in the greased baking dish.
2. Pour the beef mixture over the pasta, spreading it out evenly.
3. Dollop the cheese mixture on top and spread gently.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty, old-fashioned casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad!
Tips & Variations
✔ Make it Extra Cheesy – Add mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy bite.
✔ Swap the Meat – Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
✔ Make it Ahead – Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
✔ Add Veggies – Mix in bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap the baked casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This Grandmother’s Classic Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite. Easy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious—just like Grandma used to make!
Try this recipe today and bring a little nostalgia to your dinner table!