Beef And Cheese Casserole
A hearty beef and cheese casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, colorful peppers, and melted Velveeta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef until browned; drain fat.
- Add chopped bell peppers and onions; cook until tender.
- Stir in tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, salt, basil, and pepper.
- Spoon half of the meat mixture into a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Top with half of the sliced Velveeta cheese.
- Spoon remaining meat mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with remaining cheese slices.
- Let stand loosely covered until the cheese melts before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or diced tomatoes to the meat mixture. You can substitute the Velveeta with another cheese like cheddar for a sharper taste. If you want to lighten it up, try using ground turkey instead of beef. This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with breadsticks or garlic bread. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overheat, as this may cause the cheese to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 304 calories, with 11g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (287% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Simply peel and shred them, then par-cook them in boiling water for a few minutes before layering in the casserole. This will ensure they cook properly and blend well with the rest of the ingredients.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the casserole spicier, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You could also use pepper jack cheese in place of Velveeta for an extra kick. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for the best results.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to cook it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy days.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).