Cheesy Baked Ground Beef Casserole
Hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor — this cheesy ground beef casserole is perfect for a family dinner. Simple ingredients, big taste!
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6)
500 g (1 lb) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked pasta (penne, macaroni, or rotini)
1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 tablespoons olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat to 180°C (350°F).
Lightly grease a baking dish (9×13 inch / 22×33 cm).
2️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook until soft (3–4 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Drain excess fat if needed.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Add heavy cream if using.
5️⃣ Assemble
Mix cooked pasta with the beef sauce.
Transfer to prepared baking dish.
Top evenly with mozzarella and cheddar.
6️⃣ Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Broil 2–3 minutes for a golden top (optional).
7️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let sit 5–10 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Garlic bread
Simple green salad
Steamed vegetables
💡 Variations
✔ Add mushrooms or bell peppers
✔ Swap pasta for sliced potatoes
✔ Add chili flakes for a spicy kick
✔ Mix in ricotta for extra creaminess
Cheesy Baked Ground Beef Casserole
