One Pan Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and creamy one-pan ground beef casserole with tender noodles and savory tomato flavor, perfect for quick weeknight dinners and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add tomato juice and noodles to the skillet.
- Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Stir in sour cream or yogurt and simmer until warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef and onions. If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute. Adjust the amount of tomato juice based on your desired consistency – a thicker sauce can be achieved by reducing the amount.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or even a baked potato. This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes until hot. Consider adding a splash of tomato juice to maintain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Pan Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 1029 calories, with 17g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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 pasta?
Yes, you can use different types of noodles such as penne or rotini. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly. Thicker pasta may require a bit longer to cook, while thinner varieties like angel hair will cook more quickly. Always check for doneness to avoid mushy pasta.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or lentils. Additionally, you can incorporate more vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the ingredients used.
What can I serve this casserole with?
This casserole is versatile and can be paired with various sides. A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish well. For a comforting side, garlic bread or rolls are great options. You could even serve it with a light soup like Beef Lentil Soup for a complete meal.
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).