Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole, and this Ground Beef Casserole is sure to become a staple in your home kitchen. With its layers of rich flavors and delightful textures, this dish combines ground beef, beans, and melty cheese for a satisfying meal that will warm your soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings everyone together at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for some mouthwatering magic!
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Once done, drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, frozen corn, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together well and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing those vibrant flavors to meld.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a cheesy layer that will melt beautifully.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, letting it warm through.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, looking irresistibly golden.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving—you’ll want to enjoy it at just the right temperature!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or even some jalapeños for extra heat! Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and also freeze beautifully, making for quick meals later on. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Cooking Techniques
For perfectly browned ground beef, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Ensure your skillet is hot when you add the beef and allow it to brown without stirring too frequently. This technique helps develop deep flavor through caramelization. Additionally, letting the casserole sit for a few minutes post-baking allows the flavors to settle, making each serving even more delicious.
FAQ
Can I use other types of beans? Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans would work beautifully in this dish.
What if I don’t have cooked rice? You can easily substitute this with cooked quinoa or even pasta for a different twist.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Casserole is the definition of comfort food—simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving a dish that fills your home with warmth and aroma. So gather around the table, serve it up, and watch as smiles spread with every cheesy, flavorful bite!