Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Ingredients

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil

 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the beef mixture
   Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
   Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
   Add ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Add sauce and seasoning
   Pour in tomato sauce.
   Add salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
   Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Combine everything
   Mix the cooked pasta with the beef sauce.
   Stir in sour cream if using.
5. Assemble the casserole
   Transfer mixture into a baking dish.
   Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake
   Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

 Tips

• You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots.
• For extra flavor, mix mozzarella with cheddar.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—it helps it set better.