Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

 Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

Servings: 6-8

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

---

Ingredients:

1 ½ lbs ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (use cream of chicken or celery if allergic)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

3 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or egg noodles work well)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)

½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (optional topping)

1 tbsp butter (optional, for topping)

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess fat.

3. Stir in cream soup, tomatoes, sour cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the cooked pasta and 1½ cups of cheese. Mix well.

5. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

6. Top with remaining cheese. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over top.

7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

8. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

---

Pro Tips:

Swap pasta with cooked rice or hash browns for a twist.

Add green beans, peas, or corn for more texture and color.

Want it extra cheesy? Add a layer of mozzarella or pepper jack under the breadcrumb topping.

Would you like a version of this that’s low-carb, gluten-free, or made in a slow cooker?