Italian Beef Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite
When the weather turns brisk and the days grow shorter, I find myself craving the warmth of a homemade meal that wraps around my soul like a favorite blanket. Enter the Italian Beef Casserole, a dish that has become a longstanding star at our family gatherings. As the rich aroma of beef simmering mingles with fragrant herbs, my heart swells with memories of laughter and togetherness around the dinner table. Today, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and comfort it brings to my home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Beef Casserole isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a heartfelt expression of love and warmth. Here’s why it stands out:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and less than an hour of cooking time, it makes for a perfect quick family meal on busy nights.
- Family Bonding: Preparing this casserole together is an opportunity to bond with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter.
- Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate cozy favorite, filled with wholesome ingredients that bring a sense of nostalgia.
- Versatile: Perfect as a festive dish for gatherings or a comforting indulgent treat for a weeknight dinner.
- Healthy Options: With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients with Notes
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Italian Beef Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef: The backbone of the dish — lean beef will keep it healthier, while fatty cuts add richness.
- 1 large onion, diced: Freshly chopped onions bring depth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: For that aromatic kick; fresh is best!
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a hint of sweetness — feel free to use your favorite color.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes: Packed with flavor; San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
- 1 cup cooked pasta: Any shape you love works here. I recommend using shells or penne for the sauce to cling to.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible gooey texture — swap with provolone for a twist!
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: An all-time favorite for that classic Italian flavor!
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing all the delicious layers of flavor.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
This means you’ll be savoring this homemade recipe in less than an hour! Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation of a bubbling casserole is part of the joy!
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice it releasing those savory juices.
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Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling incredible right about now!
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Mix in the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine with Pasta: In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with your cooked pasta. Toss until well coated and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Layer and Cheese: Pour half of the beef and pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
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Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
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Serve Hot: Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Seasonal Twists: Add seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach to increase nutritional value and freshness.
- Flavor Upgrades: Consider tossing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for some heat or fresh basil at the end for a burst of freshness.
Serving Ideas
This Italian Beef Casserole is a star on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal experience:
- Pair it with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up those delicious flavors.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine — a Chianti or Sangiovese would complement the dish beautifully.
- It’s also ideal for casual gatherings with friends or family on cozy weekends or during festive occasions.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole also freezes exceptionally well; just be sure to do so before baking. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Rest the Dish: Letting it sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven helps the casserole set, making serving easier.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheeses truly elevate this dish — don’t skimp on the details!
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving adds beautiful color and flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make this in advance? Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes? You can use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes instead. Just ensure to adjust the seasons accordingly.
- Is it possible to make this vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap out the beef with a hearty mix of beans and lentils for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Conclusion
I invite you to try this Italian Beef Casserole and share it with your loved ones. Each bite is a warm hug, each serving a cherished moment shared around the table. With its comforting flavors and heartwarming aroma, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite in your home. Enjoy the laughter, the stories, and the togetherness that comes with sharing a meal beautifully crafted with love.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some memories together, one bite at a time!
Contents
Italian Beef Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Lean beef will keep it healthier, while fatty cuts add richness.
- 1 large onion, diced Freshly chopped onions bring depth and sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best for that aromatic kick.
- 1 bell pepper, diced bell pepper Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
- 1 cup cooked pasta Any shape you love works; shells or penne are recommended.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Swap with provolone for a twist.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Classic Italian flavor!
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until softened and onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with your cooked pasta. Toss until well coated and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour half of the beef and pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
Baking
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.