Easy Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole Recipe

Discover a quick, tasty Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole recipe packed with wholesome flavors perfect for family dinners any night. This hearty dish combines the savory richness of ground beef with fresh vegetables, creating a balanced meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for weeknights or special occasions, this casserole is a delightful way to bring everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal steps and simple ingredients make it a perfect go-to dinner solution.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Combines protein-packed ground beef with a variety of colorful vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• Family Friendly: Mild flavors and customizable veggies appeal to kids and adults alike.
• One-Pan Wonder: Saves on cleanup while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction.
• Great for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully, making lunches and dinners a breeze throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole is in how straightforward the ingredients are, each playing a vital role in flavor, texture, or color. From savory protein to crisp veggies and savory seasoning, these essentials come together for a crave-worthy dish.

• Ground Beef: Use lean or medium ground beef for rich flavor without too much grease.
• Bell Peppers: Adds sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
• Zucchini: Provides moisture and a tender bite that balances the meat.
• Onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness when caramelized.
• Garlic: A little punch of flavor that elevates the entire casserole.
• Tomato Sauce: Brings a rich, tangy base that ties ingredients together.
• Cheese: A melty topping that creates a golden crust and creamy finish.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika to taste, for balanced seasoning.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing veggies and adding richness.

Variations for Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, inviting you to tweak ingredients or swap veggies based on what you have or dietary preferences. Feel free to make it your own with these delicious variations.

• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty meat-free meal.
• Cheese Choices: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack to give different cheesy twists.
• Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne for a mild kick that excites the palate.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporate carrots, spinach, or corn to boost nutrition and add new textures.

How to Make Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping your bell peppers, zucchini, and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic finely to release its aroma during cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps deepen the flavor and meld everything together.

Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika, adjusting the amounts to your taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

Step 5: Transfer and Top with Cheese

Pour the beef and veggie mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle your choice of shredded cheese over the top, covering the surface completely to ensure a golden crust.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole

• Drain Excess Fat: Removing extra grease from browned beef keeps the casserole from becoming too oily.
• Sauté Veggies Thoroughly: Softening the vegetables well enhances flavor and ensures a balanced texture.
• Season Wisely: Taste the filling before baking and adjust seasonings to avoid blandness.
• Cheese Variety: Mixing different cheeses can add complexity and keep the topping exciting.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano or parsley sprinkled on top just before serving brightens the dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, scallions, or even a dollop of sour cream can add a fresh contrast and visual appeal to the casserole.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a simple green salad or steamed rice to round out the meal and add complementary textures.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic and inviting twist that impresses your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and tasty.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully; simply cover tightly with foil or wrap before freezing to preserve flavors and texture for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through to maintain that delicious baked texture.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free tomato sauce and check other ingredient labels.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the casserole dairy-free without losing flavor.

How long does this casserole keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Can I add pasta or rice to this casserole?

Definitely! Mixing in cooked rice or pasta before baking transforms it into an even heartier meal, perfect for bigger appetites.

What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the casserole?

Cover the casserole with foil while reheating in the oven to retain moisture and sprinkle a little water on top if needed before heating.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef and Veggie Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that combines nourishing ingredients, simple preparation, and comforting flavors in one delightful dish. It’s perfect for any night when you want something delicious and nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your meal rotation!

Related Posts

• Easy Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef
• Easy Lipton Onion Soup Meatloaf Recipe to Try Tonight
• Quick and Healthy Broiled Lemon Pepper Tilapia Recipe

Print