Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
Introduction
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, loved by families worldwide. With layers of tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. It combines hearty ingredients with nostalgic flavors, making it a favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta Layer:
• 2 cups (200g) uncooked pasta (penne or macaroni work best)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
For the Cheese Topping:
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil. Set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
• Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant and softened.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings (basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper). Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked pasta evenly.
• Pour the ground beef mixture over the pasta, spreading it out to cover the entire layer.
• Sprinkle shredded cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan) generously over the top.
4. Bake to Perfection
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
History
Casseroles have been a culinary staple for centuries, with origins tracing back to ancient times. This specific variation, combining pasta, meat, and cheese, became widely popular in mid-20th-century America, symbolizing convenience and hearty flavors. Its versatility has allowed families to adapt it with their unique twists.
Benefits
• High in Protein: Thanks to the ground beef and cheese, this dish is a rich source of protein.
• Great for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
• Customizable: You can substitute ingredients to match dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Formation
The layered structure ensures every bite includes tender pasta, savory sauce, and creamy cheese. The baking process melds these flavors, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.
Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 15% of the daily recommended intake
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with indulgence. It’s a surefire way to bring people together over a shared love of comforting, home-cooked food.
Perfect for Lovers of Comfort Food
This dish is perfect for those who enjoy hearty, cheesy meals with a nostalgic twist. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a romantic evening with your special someone (like “Z”), this casserole guarantees smiles and full hearts.