15 Quick Meals for Dinner Easy Ground Beef Casserole Recipes

Ground beef casseroles prove that comfort food doesn't require hours in the kitchen or complex techniques. You'll find these 15 hearty dishes offer the perfect balance of convenience and satisfaction, transforming simple ingredients into family-pleasing meals. From classic rice-based bakes to creative pizza-inspired versions, each recipe gives you a reliable dinner solution that's both budget-friendly and customizable. Let's explore how these one-dish wonders can revolutionize your weeknight cooking routine.

Classic Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables in a single baking dish. This classic American meal has been a family favorite for generations, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.

This recipe serves 6-8 people and takes about 45 minutes to prepare from start to finish. The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility – it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, and leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent. Add ground beef and garlic, cooking until beef is browned. Drain excess fat. Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, frozen vegetables, and seasonings, stirring to combine. Fold in the cooked rice.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

For best results, use long-grain rice and avoid overcooking it before adding to the casserole. The dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. If baking from cold, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. For a healthier version, substitute brown rice for white rice and use lean ground beef or ground turkey.

Cheesy Mexican Taco Bake

Craving Mexican food but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? This Cheesy Mexican Taco Bake combines all the flavors of traditional tacos in an easy-to-make casserole format that's perfect for busy weeknights. The dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal that will please the whole family.

This casserole-style dish layers seasoned ground beef, crispy tortillas, and melted cheese with classic Mexican toppings. It takes only about 30 minutes to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for meal prep or last-minute dinner plans.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the diced onion until translucent. Add the ground beef and garlic, breaking up the meat while cooking until browned. Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer tortillas to cover the bottom, followed by half of the meat mixture and a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

For best results, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to help it set properly. You can customize the heat level by using mild or hot taco seasoning and adjusting the amount of green chilies. The dish can be frozen before baking and stored for up to 3 months – just increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes when cooking from frozen.

Hamburger Helper-Style Pasta Casserole

A homemade version of the classic boxed dinner favorite brings comfort food to your table without artificial ingredients or preservatives. This one-pot meal combines ground beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce for a satisfying weeknight dinner that's ready in about 30 minutes.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be customized with different pasta shapes or cheese varieties. The combination of beef broth and milk creates a rich sauce that coats every bite, while the tomato paste adds depth and a subtle tang that balances the creamy elements.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the uncooked pasta, beef broth, milk, tomato paste, and seasonings to the same pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.

For best results, use a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to ensure enough space for stirring. Keep an eye on the liquid level while cooking; if the pasta isn't fully cooked when the liquid is almost gone, add a small amount of hot water or broth. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools, so don't worry if it seems slightly loose when first finished.

Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie

Ground Beef Shepherd's Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. This classic comfort food originated in the United Kingdom but has become a beloved family meal worldwide, offering a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates in one satisfying casserole.

While traditional Shepherd's Pie is made with lamb, this version uses ground beef, making it more accessible and budget-friendly for everyday cooking. The dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 4 large potatoes, peeled
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until vegetables are softened. Stir in tomato paste, herbs, and beef broth, then simmer until the mixture thickens. Add frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.

While the meat cooks, boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with milk and butter until smooth. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and create peaks with a fork. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

For best results, let the Shepherd's Pie rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to prevent the filling from being too runny. The potato topping can be enhanced with cheese, and leftover mashed potatoes work perfectly for this recipe. Consider making extra to freeze for future meals, as this dish freezes well for up to three months.

Pizza-Inspired Ground Beef and Pepperoni Bake

Pizza-Inspired Ground Beef and Pepperoni Bake transforms classic pizza flavors into a hearty, low-carb casserole that satisfies even the strongest pizza cravings. This protein-rich dish combines seasoned ground beef with pizza toppings like pepperoni, melted cheese, and marinara sauce, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

While traditional pizza relies on a bread-based crust, this bake uses a base of well-seasoned ground beef, making it an excellent option for those following low-carb or gluten-free diets. The combination of beef and pepperoni provides a rich, savory foundation, while the marinara sauce and melted cheese deliver the authentic pizza experience everyone loves.

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 4 oz sliced pepperoni
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp oregano
• Optional: sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives

Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions and garlic until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat and add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and oregano. Spread the seasoned meat mixture in a 9×13 baking dish.

Layer the marinara sauce over the meat, followed by half the mozzarella cheese. Arrange the pepperoni slices across the cheese layer, then add any optional toppings. Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

For best results, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly. The dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold. Consider using a slotted spoon when serving to prevent excess liquid on plates.

Zesty Italian Ground Beef and Ziti

This classic Italian-American pasta dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with the comfort of ziti pasta, all brought together in a zesty tomato sauce. The combination creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and flavorful.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and simplicity. While traditional Italian cuisine often separates pasta and meat courses, this fusion approach creates an all-in-one meal that's become a staple in modern households, offering both protein and carbohydrates in a single, flavorful dish.

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. While waiting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if desired.

Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer while the pasta cooks. Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain pasta and add it to the meat sauce, stirring to combine. Add half the Parmesan cheese and stir until integrated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

For best results, make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften slightly when combined with the hot sauce. The dish can be made ahead and reheated, though you may want to add a splash of water when reheating to maintain the desired consistency. This recipe also freezes well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Cowboy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole

A hearty Cowboy Ground Beef and Bean Casserole combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, savory beans, and melted cheese into a satisfying one-dish meal. This classic comfort food brings together the rustic elements of traditional cowboy cooking with modern convenience.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole can be prepared in advance and feeds a hungry family with minimal effort. The combination of protein-rich beef and beans, along with vegetables and cheese, creates a balanced meal that's both nutritious and delicious.

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain excess fat. Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy.

For best results, avoid overcooking the casserole as this can dry out the beef and beans. The dish can be frozen before baking – simply thaw completely and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time. Consider serving with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or diced avocado for added flavor and texture.

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (10 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips

Creamy Ground Beef Potato Bake

Creamy Ground Beef Potato Bake transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights. This casserole-style dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, and a rich cream sauce that melts together during baking to create a satisfying one-dish dinner.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and make-ahead potential. While traditional potato casseroles often require pre-cooking the potatoes, this version streamlines the process by using thinly sliced potatoes that cook directly in the cream sauce, saving both time and effort.

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chicken broth

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

Layer half the sliced potatoes in a greased 9×13 baking dish, top with half the meat mixture, and half the cheese. Repeat layers. Combine the heavy cream and chicken broth in a bowl, then pour over the layered ingredients. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.

For best results, slice the potatoes uniformly thin (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even cooking. The dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking, though you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator. To prevent curdling, bring the cream to room temperature before using.

Southwest Doritos and Ground Beef Layer

Southwest Doritos and Ground Beef Layer is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine with the satisfying crunch of Doritos chips. This layered creation transforms simple ingredients into a filling meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The dish draws inspiration from traditional Mexican layered dips but incorporates more substantial ingredients to create a complete meal. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, fresh vegetables, and crushed Doritos creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 large bag Nacho Cheese Doritos
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 diced avocado
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat and add the taco seasoning according to package instructions. While the meat is cooking, crush the Doritos into large pieces. In a 9×13 baking dish, layer the ingredients starting with crushed Doritos, followed by the seasoned beef, refried beans, and cheese. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.

After removing from the oven, top with fresh ingredients in this order: lettuce, tomatoes, onions, avocado, sour cream, green chilies, and black olives. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.

For best results, avoid crushing the Doritos too finely as they provide essential texture to the dish. The recipe can be partially prepared in advance by cooking the beef mixture and storing it separately, but assembly should be done just before baking to prevent the chips from becoming soggy. If planning to have leftovers, consider serving the fresh toppings separately so they can be added to individual portions as needed.

Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole

Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole transforms the time-consuming process of making traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into a quick and convenient casserole format. This hearty dish combines all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls – seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and tomato sauce – layered together in a single baking dish.

The casserole version maintains the soul-warming comfort of the original while cutting the preparation time significantly. It's an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a filling meal that can feed a family but don't have time for intricate cooking steps.

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large head cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add onions and garlic, cooking until the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat and stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.

In a separate pan, sauté the chopped cabbage in olive oil until slightly softened. Layer half the cabbage in a greased 9×13 baking dish, followed by the meat mixture, then top with the remaining cabbage. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is lightly browned.

For best results, chop the cabbage into consistent, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for meal prep. If the mixture seems dry during layering, add 1/2 cup of beef broth to maintain moisture during baking.

Cheeseburger Tater Tot Hot Dish

A Cheeseburger Tater Tot Hot Dish combines two classic comfort foods into one satisfying casserole. This Midwestern favorite transforms the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger into a hearty, family-style meal topped with crispy tater tots.

The dish takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling that doesn't require extensive preparation. It serves 6-8 people and can be made ahead of time and reheated when needed.

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat. Mix in the cream soups, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheese, then arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer covering the entire surface. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the mixture is bubbling around the edges.

For best results, allow the hot dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to portion. The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator – just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Ground Beef Enchilada Rice Bake

Ground beef enchilada rice bake combines the hearty flavors of traditional Mexican enchiladas with the convenience of a casserole-style dish. This one-pan meal features seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, all smothered in rich enchilada sauce for a satisfying dinner that feeds the whole family.

This budget-friendly dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or meal prep. The combination of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables creates a balanced meal that eliminates the need for additional side dishes.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups white rice, uncooked
• 2 cans (10 oz each) red enchilada sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, cilantro

Cook rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. Meanwhile, brown ground beef with onions and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning. In a large baking dish, combine the cooked rice, seasoned beef mixture, black beans, corn, and one can of enchilada sauce.

Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the mixture and top with shredded cheese. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

To ensure the best results, avoid overcooking the rice as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. The dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, though you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or use hot enchilada sauce.

Mediterranean Ground Beef and Orzo

Mediterranean Ground Beef and Orzo is a delightful one-pan meal that combines the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef with tender orzo pasta, creating a perfect weeknight dinner option. The dish draws inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine with its use of oregano, garlic, and fresh vegetables, while maintaining the comfort-food appeal that makes it a family favorite.

This versatile recipe can be customized based on available ingredients and preferences, making it an excellent choice for busy households. The combination of protein, pasta, and vegetables creates a balanced meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for those seeking a quick but satisfying dinner solution.

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into smaller pieces. Once cooked, remove the beef and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and bell peppers in olive oil until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant. Return the beef to the pan and add the orzo, seasonings, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom. Once done, remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before topping with feta cheese and fresh parsley.

For best results, use a large, wide skillet with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking of the orzo. The dish can be made ahead and reheated, though you may need to add a splash of broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency. To make it more nutritious, consider adding spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.

BBQ Ground Beef and Cornbread Topping

BBQ Ground Beef and Cornbread Topping combines classic comfort food elements into a hearty, satisfying meal that can be prepared in under an hour. The rich, savory ground beef base, enhanced with tangy barbecue sauce, creates a flavorful foundation that perfectly complements the sweet, golden cornbread topping.

This dish draws inspiration from traditional shepherd's pie but adds a Southern twist with its cornbread crown. The combination of textures – the moist, saucy meat mixture beneath and the tender, slightly crumbly cornbread on top – makes this an excellent choice for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
• 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Drain excess fat, then stir in barbecue sauce, corn, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Prepare the cornbread topping according to package instructions, combining the mix with egg and milk until just blended. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the meat mixture. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.

For best results, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. The barbecue sauce can be adjusted to taste, and different varieties will create unique flavor profiles. To prevent the cornbread from becoming soggy, ensure the meat mixture isn't too wet before adding the topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Noodle Bake

Ground Beef Stroganoff Noodle Bake combines the classic flavors of traditional stroganoff with the convenience of a casserole. This hearty dish transforms the stovetop favorite into a baked version that's perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal that can feed the whole family.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and familiar ingredients. While traditional stroganoff uses more expensive cuts of beef, this version utilizes ground beef to keep costs down while maintaining the rich, creamy mushroom sauce that makes stroganoff so beloved.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook egg noodles according to package directions, slightly undercooking them as they'll continue to cook in the oven. Meanwhile, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Remove beef and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and mushrooms in butter and olive oil until softened, then add garlic and cook for another minute.

Return the beef to the pan and stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Combine the sauce mixture with the cooked noodles and transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

For best results, allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking – just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. The sauce can be thinned with additional beef broth if it becomes too thick during baking.