Welcome to AllRecipesBeginner! Today, we’re diving into a classic comfort food—Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe. This dish is perfect for beginner cooks looking to impress with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious, hearty meal that will become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Creating Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is a straightforward process. This family recipe is all about layering flavors and textures to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s everything you need to know to make this delicious casserole.
Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon white sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 large white onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Ground Beef Casserole
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the beef is fully browned and no pink remains. Once done, drain the grease to keep your casserole from becoming too oily. Season the beef with garlic salt and salt to enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Next, add the tomato sauce, white sugar, garlic salt, and a bit more salt to the browned beef. Stir everything together until well combined. Let this mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory sauce that will be the base of your casserole. Cover the skillet and remove it from heat to keep it warm.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Noodles
While your sauce is simmering, cook the egg noodles. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the noodles. Cook them for 7-9 minutes or until they are al dente—firm to the bite but not too hard. This ensures the noodles will hold up well in the casserole and won’t become mushy. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the casserole, ensuring a hot, bubbly center and a beautifully browned top. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with a bit of oil or non-stick spray. This will prevent sticking and make serving much easier.
Step 5: Mix the Cream Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together sour cream, softened cream cheese, and finely diced onion. This mixture adds a creamy, tangy layer to your casserole that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef sauce. Make sure the cream cheese is softened; this makes it easier to mix and ensures a smooth consistency.
Step 6: Layer the Casserole
Now comes the fun part—layering! Start by spreading half of the cooked noodles in the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Next, spoon half of the sour cream mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the beef sauce. Repeat these layers with the remaining noodles, sour cream mixture, and beef sauce. This layering technique creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Step 7: Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Don’t be shy—this is what will give your casserole that delicious, cheesy crust that everyone loves. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add a bit more!
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. The baking time allows all the flavors to come together and the cheese to form a perfect, gooey topping. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Customizing Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
One of the best things about Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Ingredient Variations: Try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Dietary Modifications: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles. For a low-carb version, substitute the noodles with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding extra spices like paprika, oregano, or basil to the beef mixture for a deeper flavor profile. You can also top the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a crispy topping.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ground Beef Casserole
Storage and Reheating
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through to prevent it from drying out.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Remember to cook the noodles to al dente to avoid a mushy casserole.
- Undercooking the Beef: Ensure the beef is fully browned and cooked through before adding it to the casserole.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of Ground Beef Casserole
This casserole is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal:
- Calories per serving: 507
- Fat: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 134mg
- Sodium: 975mg
Ground beef is a great source of protein, which helps build and repair tissues. The tomato sauce adds a good dose of vitamins A and C, while cheese provides calcium. Just keep portion sizes in mind to enjoy this dish as part of a balanced diet.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Casserole Dishes
Casseroles have a rich history in American cuisine, often serving as a comforting staple at family gatherings and potlucks. Grandma’s recipes like this one are cherished for their simplicity and hearty flavors, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort. These dishes are often passed down through generations, preserving not just the recipes but also the stories and traditions associated with them.
Related Recipes and Serving Suggestions
Looking to round out your meal? Here are a few ideas:
- Complementary Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- Other Casserole Variations: Try other family favorites like chicken noodle casserole or a vegetarian lasagna for variety.
- Dessert Pairings: Finish the meal with a classic apple pie or a simple fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe is a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it out, make it your own, and enjoy the comforting taste of a home-cooked meal!