Quick Beef Casserole
A hearty and cheesy beef casserole that combines ground beef, pasta, and vegetables for a comforting family meal. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Prepare the elbow macaroni according to the package directions.
- Drain the Veg-All and partially drain the stewed tomatoes.
- Mix the cooked beef, macaroni, Veg-All, and tomatoes in a large casserole dish.
- Top the mixture with grated Cheddar and Mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake at 360°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic while browning the ground beef. If you're short on time, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand. To add more vegetables, consider throwing in some frozen mixed veggies or fresh spinach. For a slightly different taste, try using Pepper Jack cheese in place of the Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
This Quick Beef Casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley. It also complements well with sides like Southern Baked Beans or steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Beef Casserole contains roughly 595 calories, with 38g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 in this casserole?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I don’t have stewed tomatoes?
If you don’t have stewed tomatoes, you can easily substitute them with diced tomatoes or a can of tomato sauce. You might want to add a pinch of sugar or Italian seasoning to replicate the flavor of stewed tomatoes.
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).