ground beef dinner recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
ground beef dinner recipe
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The Best ground beef dinner recipe

I’ve been making this ground beef dinner recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in our household. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to hit the spot. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

I love that it’s a great way to get everyone eating together, as it’s easy to customize with various toppings and sides. My kids adore it because they can add their favorite toppings, from cheese to veggies. As a busy mom, I appreciate that it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that can be ready in under an hour.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m so glad I can share it with you today. It’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike. The combination of flavors and textures is unbeatable – the rich beef, the tangy tomato sauce, and the crunch of the vegetables all come together to create a truly satisfying meal.

Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering how delicious it is! My family loves when I serve this dish because it feels like a big hug in a bowl. We’ve served it at family gatherings and potlucks, and everyone always raves about it.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish. And the leftovers are just as tasty the next day! I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but this basic recipe remains my go-to.

Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Classic Ground Beef Casserole

4.8 from 1023 votes

A comforting and hearty dish featuring seasoned ground beef in a rich tomato sauce, topped with a golden crust of breadcrumbs and cheese. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
3This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4Drain any excess fat.
5Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook with the ground beef over medium heat until the onions are translucent and lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.
6Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
7Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
8Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9The sauce should thicken slightly and the onions should be soft.
10Transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
11In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated cheese, olive oil, and paprika.
12Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
13Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the beef in the baking dish.
14Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
15Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
16This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
17Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the beef mixture for extra nutrition. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Classic Ground Beef Casserole Works

This ground beef dinner recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight meal. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite toppings and sides. I love serving this dish because it feels like a big hug in a bowl – everyone leaves feeling satisfied and happy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Casserole

Q: What type of ground beef should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for this recipe – it’s lean enough to prevent greasiness but still retains enough fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Sure thing! Fresh veggies will add even more flavor and texture to your dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I ensure my ground beef is cooked through?

The key is to cook the beef until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can check this by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Sure! This dish freezes beautifully – simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: What if I don’t have any tomato paste on hand?

No worries! You can substitute with an equal amount of ketchup or even leave out the tomato paste altogether if you prefer.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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