Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

A rich, comforting casserole with a soft golden crust, seasoned ground beef, a creamy cheese layer, and plenty of melted cheddar on top.

Ingredients

For the beef filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste

For the creamy layer

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (120 g) sour cream
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the crust

• 1 refrigerated crescent-roll dough sheet or pizza dough, about 8 oz (225 g)
• 1 tbsp melted butter

For the topping

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella
• Optional: chopped parsley or chives

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C. Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish.
2. Press the crescent-roll or pizza dough evenly into the bottom of the dish. Brush lightly with melted butter. Bake for about 7–8 minutes, just until it begins to set but is not fully browned.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces, until completely browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Add garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring well.
6. In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
7. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the partially baked crust.
8. Spoon the creamy cheese mixture over the beef and gently spread it into an even layer.
9. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella generously over the entire casserole.
10. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and deeply golden in spots.
11. For an extra browned top like the photo, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully so the cheese does not burn.
12. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 8–10 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers stay together when serving.

Serving

Cut into squares and serve warm with a green salad, roasted vegetables, pickles, or garlic bread.

Servings: 6–8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: About 55 minutes