There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty ground beef casserole for dinner. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy hug, reminding you of family gatherings and home-cooked meals. I remember my grandmother used to make a similar casserole every Sunday, filling the house with the most delightful aroma. She’d always say, “Good food brings people together,” and she was so right! This particular recipe is not only simple to prepare but also super satisfying, with layers of flavor that meld beautifully while baking. You’ll find ground beef, colorful veggies, and tender rice all swimming in a delicious broth, making it a one-dish wonder for busy weeknights. Trust me, your family will love it as much as mine did! Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) are just as tasty, making this casserole a fantastic choice for dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you like!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a wonderfully flavorful casserole that’s both filling and comforting. You can easily adjust quantities if you’re cooking for a smaller or larger group. Oh, and don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite beans or veggies—this dish is all about making it your own!
How to Prepare Ground Beef Casserole for Dinner
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into making this delicious ground beef casserole! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks, so it’s nice and crumbly. You want that rich flavor to develop!
- Add veggies: Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them together for about 3–4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step adds so much depth to the dish!
- Mix in the remaining ingredients: Now, stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, uncooked rice, beef broth, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined. Don’t worry if it seems a bit soupy; the rice will absorb the liquid as it cooks.
- Transfer to a casserole dish: Carefully pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it out evenly for even cooking.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps everything cook through and meld together beautifully.
- Uncover and finish baking: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This will give the top a lovely golden finish.
- Cool and serve: Once done, let the casserole cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to scoop out!
And there you have it! A hearty ground beef casserole ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for family dinners or to share with friends. I can almost smell it now!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just over an hour!
- One-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze.
- Comforting and satisfying flavors that warm the heart.
- Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
- Great source of protein and fiber for a balanced dinner.
- Simple steps, so even novice cooks can shine!
This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, bringing your family together at the dinner table with ease and delight.
Tips for Success
To make sure your ground beef casserole turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the beef; it enhances the flavor, so take your time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to swap ground turkey for the beef—just be mindful that it cooks a bit faster! For a healthier twist, you can use brown rice instead of white rice; just remember it may take a little longer to cook, so adjust your liquid accordingly.
Also, consider adding in some extra veggies like corn, zucchini, or even spinach to boost the nutrition. If you love a bit of spice, toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce! And don’t forget to taste your mixture before baking; adjusting the seasoning can make all the difference. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious, comforting casserole that everyone will adore!
Variations of Ground Beef Casseroles for Dinner
One of the best things about this ground beef casserole is how versatile it is! You can easily tailor it to fit your family’s tastes or what you have on hand. For a different twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef; it lightens up the dish while still being hearty.
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans. You can even toss in some frozen corn or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Want a Mediterranean flair? Add some chopped spinach, diced olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese before baking—yum!
For those who love a kick, mix in some diced green chilies or top it with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a bubbly, cheesy finish. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting with different combinations to find your perfect casserole!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
While I’ve included some estimated nutritional values for this ground beef casserole, please remember that these can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The values provided are approximate and meant to serve as a general guideline. For a single serving, you can expect about 350 calories, 15 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 35 grams of carbohydrates. If you’re watching your sodium intake or have dietary restrictions, be sure to check the labels on your ingredients. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your personal needs and preferences!
Serving Suggestions
This ground beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but there’s no harm in adding a few delightful sides to enhance your dinner experience! A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing complement that balances the hearty flavors of the casserole. You could also serve some warm, crusty bread or garlic bread on the side—perfect for soaking up any leftover juices!
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more substantial, consider roasted vegetables like carrots and broccoli, which add a lovely crunch and nutrition. And for those chilly evenings, a cozy bowl of creamy coleslaw can add a nice contrast. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your delicious ground beef casserole leftovers, let it cool completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze the casserole! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It should be good for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25–30 minutes. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option—just be sure to cover it to prevent splatters!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a lighter alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than ground beef.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead! Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a tasty alternative. It will still give you a comforting flavor!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the rice is tender and the mixture is bubbly around the edges. You can also check by tasting a bit of the rice to ensure it’s cooked through.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to cool the casserole completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months, and reheating is super easy!
Ground Beef Casseroles for Dinner: 7 Comforting Recipes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting ground beef casserole perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, rice, beef broth, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Swap kidney beans for black beans or chickpeas if desired.
- Brown rice can replace white rice for a healthier choice.
- Add vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef casseroles for dinner
