GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE

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🍲 GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE

Ingredients

⭐ For the Beef Layer

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes or 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional: peas, corn, carrots)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Salt & pepper to taste

⭐ For the Pasta Layer

  • 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne, macaroni, rotini)
  • Salt for boiling water

⭐ For the Creamy Layer

  • 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter (optional for extra creaminess)

Instructions

🔹 1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside.

🔹 2. Prepare the Beef Mixture

  1. In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned.
  2. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft.
  3. Add diced tomatoes/tomato sauce, spices, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add vegetables (optional).
  5. Let everything simmer for 5–7 minutes.

🔹 3. Make the Creamy Cheese Layer

  1. In a bowl, mix sour cream, cheddar, half the mozzarella, and butter.
  2. Stir until smooth.

🔹 4. Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a baking dish:
    • Spread the pasta on the bottom.
    • Pour the beef mixture over it.
    • Spread the creamy cheese mixture on top.
    • Sprinkle remaining mozzarella.

🔹 5. Bake

  • Bake 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  • Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with garlic bread 🥖
  • Add fresh parsley on top 🌿
  • Great with salad on the side 🥗

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