Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

This comforting and bubbly baked casserole features layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, a rich tomato-based sauce with corn and vegetables, and a generous, golden-brown topping of melted cheese. It is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that comes together easily in a single baking dish.

Ingredients

• Meat & Produce:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef

  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 green or red bell pepper, diced

• Pasta & Vegetables:

  • 8 oz rotini, penne, or wide egg noodles (cooked and drained)

  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• Sauce & Cheese:

  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or pasta sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a Mexican blend)

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Brown the Beef and Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add Aromatics and Sauces: Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and corn, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Combine with Pasta: Stir the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the meat and sauce mixture until everything is thoroughly coated.

5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Add the Cheese Layer: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.

8. Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.