Easy Casseroles with Ground Beef

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Hey friends!

Are you in the mood for some comfort food? I’ve got just the thing for you!

Today, I’m sharing my delicious casseroles with ground beef.

They’re hearty, cheesy, and super easy to make.

Perfect for family dinners or just when you’re craving something warm and cozy.

So, grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)
 
Preparation Time 15-20 minutes
Cooking Time 30-40 minutes
Total Time 45-60 minutes
Level of Difficulty Medium
 

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 1 finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 pound dried egg noodles or rotini (454 grams)
  • 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
  • 4 ounces cubed cream cheese (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup any kind of cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (such as marble, mozzarella, or cheddar)
 

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, diced onion, and chopped red bell pepper until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

 

Step 2: Season and Simmer the Sauce

Add minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and ground mustard to the skillet.

Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.

Stir in the tomato sauce and water, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the pasta.

 

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the pasta immediately.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until it is al dente according to the package instructions.

Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

 

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Pasta Mixture

In the same pot used to cook the pasta, add the cream cheese and cream.

Cook and stir over medium heat until the cream cheese is melted and well combined with the cream.

Add the cooked pasta and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the pot, stirring to coat the pasta in the creamy mixture.

Add more pasta water as needed to achieve a saucy consistency.

 

Step 5: Assemble and Bake (Optional)

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Spread the creamy pasta mixture into the dish evenly.

If you prefer a baked finish, bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.

 

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, if desired, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, creamy pasta dish!

Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

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