Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to gather around during those cozy autumn nights. Enter the One-Pan Cheesy Beef Casserole—a dish that combines the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a melty layer of cheese that pulls together beautifully in a single pan. This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that evoke the essence of fall.
Imagine your kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of spices mingling with the richness of beef and the creaminess of cheese, as you prepare a meal that promises to warm both your body and soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner, this casserole is straightforward to whip up yet impressive enough to delight your family or friends.
Not only does this dish come together with minimal cleanup—bonus for busy cooks—it also leaves plenty of room for customization. Whether you want to sneak in some seasonal veggies or swap out the meat, it’s a versatile recipe that adapts to your taste. So grab your favorite baking dish, and let’s dive into creating a heartwarming One-Pan Cheesy Beef Casserole that will become a staple in your autumn repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
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- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Incorporate the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
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- Introduce the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until it releases its aroma.
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- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it turns brown and is no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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- Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni, beef broth, diced tomatoes (including their juices), and the frozen mixed vegetables. Stir to evenly mix all ingredients.
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- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and lower the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is soft and the bulk of the liquid has been absorbed.
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- Take off the lid and evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover again and allow it to sit for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
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- After the cheese has melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound of lean ground beef, perfect for a hearty base.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced for added flavor.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced to give an aromatic kick.
- Rice: 1 cup of uncooked white or brown rice for a filling grain base.
- Beef Broth: 2 cups of beef broth to cook the rice and add depth to the dish.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup of tomato sauce for a tangy and rich flavor.
- Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) to create that gooey, cheesy topping.
- Vegetables: 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, or peas) for a touch of color and nutrition.
- Italian Seasoning: 1-2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning for a comforting herbal note.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing the onions and beef.
These ingredients come together to create a warm and comforting casserole, perfect for those chilly autumn evenings!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and thoroughly.
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Prepare the Ingredients: While the oven is heating, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need ground beef, onions, garlic, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and your favorite pasta. Don’t forget the star of the show—lots of cheese!
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Brown the Beef: In a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Toss in diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
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Mix in the Extras: Add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), broth (or water), and your uncooked pasta. Season everything with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like Italian seasoning or paprika) to give it a warm autumn flavor. Stir well to combine.
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Cheese it Up: Before placing the casserole in the oven, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top. This will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes.
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Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This will allow the pasta to cook and soak up all the delicious flavors.
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Uncover and Add More Cheese: After 25 minutes, remove the cover and add even more cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes uncovered until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the pasta to set and makes it easier to serve.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy your cozy one-pan cheesy beef casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil if desired. Perfect for a chilly autumn evening!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your One-Pan Cheesy Beef Casserole experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
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Side Salad: Pair your casserole with a crisp side salad. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch. The crispy texture complements the creamy casserole beautifully.
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Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy flair and a creamy finish. It’s a delicious way to tone down the richness of the dish.
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Steamed Vegetables: Brighten the meal with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans. Their vibrant colors and fresh taste enhance the overall presentation and balance the meal.
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Pickles or Relish: Adding some pickles or a tangy relish on the side can provide a crunchy, zesty contrast that cuts through the heaviness of the casserole.
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Chunky Applesauce: For a bit of sweetness, serve the casserole with a side of chunky applesauce. It brings a seasonal touch that beautifully complements the savory flavors.
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Hot Sauce or Sriracha: If you enjoy a kick of heat, don’t shy away from drizzling some hot sauce or Sriracha over your serving. It adds a great depth of flavor and an enjoyable spice.
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Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce on the side can add a burst of sweetness and a lovely autumnal touch.
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Beverage Pairing: Enjoy your meal with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or a glass of red wine. Both pair wonderfully with the hearty elements of the casserole.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a cozy dinner experience perfect for crisp autumn evenings!
Conclusion
This One-Pan Cheesy Beef Casserole is the perfect dish to embrace the warmth and comfort of autumn nights. With its savory beef, tender vegetables, and a gooey cheese topping, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the season’s cozy flavors. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since it all comes together in one pan!
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonal ingredients or spice it up according to your palate. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a satisfying dinner for two, this casserole will surely become a beloved staple in your fall meal rotation.
So, gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy the comforting tastes of autumn with this delightful dish. Happy cooking!
