Easy Ground Beef Bake
Comforting baked beef with bell pepper, onion, creamy soup, topped with cheese Tater Tots—a hearty, family-friendly dish with savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Press 1 lb. lean ground beef into an 8x8-inch pan.
- Season with salt, pepper, or garlic salt to taste.
- Add chopped bell pepper and onion, then pour in 1 can of asparagus or celery soup undiluted.
- Spread a layer of cheese Tater Tots (or squares of cheese) over the top.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
- Serve 4.
Tips & Substitutions
For this Easy Ground Beef Bake, make sure to use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter. You can substitute the bell pepper with any color or even zucchini for a different flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream to the soup mixture. This dish is an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables. For an alternative, check out Beef Casserole With Corn Muffin Top for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Ground Beef Bake is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a satisfying dinner, serve it alongside warm garlic bread or biscuits. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish. For more ideas, browse more American recipes that feature ground beef.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the bake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Ground Beef Bake contains roughly 199 calories, with 7g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (161% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 852mg per serving (37% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed, especially for leaner meats.
What can I do if I don't have asparagus or celery soup?
If you don't have asparagus or celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or chicken soup as a substitute. This will give a different flavor but will still keep the dish creamy and delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Easy Ground Beef Bake, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef layer. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the Tater Tots before baking for an extra kick.
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).