Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole with cauliflower rice is a hearty dish that everyone will love! Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and cheese with the health benefits of cauliflower rice. It’s simple to prepare and can be made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Your guests will appreciate this delicious blend of flavors and textures!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of spices and cheese creates a rich flavor that satisfies cravings and warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it flexible for various dietary needs.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep or easy lunches.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 12-inch skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 12-inch skillet: A large skillet allows you to cook the beef and vegetables evenly without crowding.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for baking casseroles, ensuring even cooking and browning.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up ground beef while cooking, preventing scratches on your cookware.

Ingredients

This ground beef casserole with cauliflower rice is easy to put together and perfect for feeding a crowd! It’s a comforting dish made with simple ingredients.

For the Casserole

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 6 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 10 ounces frozen cauliflower rice (cooked according to the directions on the bag)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon butter (room temperature)
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (if needed)
• 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese (or any other shredded cheese that you have/prefer)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375˚F. This ensures it reaches the right temperature while you’re preparing the casserole.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add lean ground beef to the skillet.
1. Season with Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until it is fully browned.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Stir in fresh baby spinach into the beef mixture.
1. If necessary, add spinach in batches depending on your skillet size.
2. Cook until wilted, approximately 1 minute.

Step 5: Prepare Cauliflower Rice Mixture

In a 9×13-inch baking dish:
1. Combine cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil.
2. Mix until creamy; add milk if needed.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Add the prepared beef mixture to the baking dish containing cauliflower rice.
1. Stir everything together until well incorporated.
2. Top with shredded cheese evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Bake Casserole

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven.
1. Bake for about 22 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and let stand for about 7 to 10 minutes before cutting into portions to serve.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Casserole with family or friends!

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Individual Portions

• Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a cozy presentation. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own personal serving.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top just before serving. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color.

With a Side Salad

• Pair the casserole with a light side salad. A simple mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with olive oil complements the richness of the dish.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on the plate.

With Sliced Avocado

• Offer sliced avocado as a topping. Its creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the ground beef casserole.

Drizzled with Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy some heat, provide hot sauce on the side. A dash can add an exciting kick to every bite.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

Perfecting your ground beef casserole is all about attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Choose lean meat: Using lean ground beef minimizes excess grease, making your casserole healthier and more enjoyable.
• Season generously: Don’t hold back on seasoning! Properly seasoning each layer enhances flavor throughout the entire dish.
• Cook vegetables fully: Ensure that onions and spinach are cooked until soft before combining them with the meat; this adds depth to the overall flavor.
• Use warm ingredients: Mixing warm cauliflower rice with sour cream and butter helps achieve a creamy consistency without lumps.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking; this helps it set up nicely for easier serving.
• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor and texture, or use what you have on hand.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole pairs well with various sides that complement its hearty nature. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds crunch and flavor; perfect for mopping up any sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: This crisp salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole and can be prepared quickly.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients and color, making your plate more balanced.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add sweetness and depth to your meal.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as an excellent base underneath slices of casserole for an extra filling option.
7. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread can be a delightful addition, providing a slightly sweet balance to savory flavors.
8. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus adds elegance and brings vibrant color to your dinner table while being nutritious too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious Ground Beef Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Beef: If you cook the ground beef for too long, it can become dry and tough. Aim to cook it just until browned for a juicy texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: A bland casserole is less appealing. Don’t skip on seasoning your ground beef and other ingredients; taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold sour cream or butter can lead to clumpy mixtures. Make sure these ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole too soon can cause it to fall apart. Always allow it to sit for 7-10 minutes after baking for better serving.
• Skipping the Spinach: Omitting vegetables like spinach can reduce nutritional value. Incorporate greens for added health benefits and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and preserve freshness.

Freezing Ground Beef Casserole

• Duration: Freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Ground Beef Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F and bake covered for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ground Beef Casserole?

Ground Beef Casserole is a hearty dish made with lean ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy base that’s baked until bubbly.

Can I use different vegetables in my Ground Beef Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my Ground Beef Casserole healthier?

To make your casserole healthier, consider using leaner cuts of beef, reducing cheese, or adding more vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

What sides go well with Ground Beef Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Casserole is not only comforting but also versatile enough for various dietary preferences. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or changing up the cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, so give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Ground Beef Casserole

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings together the rich flavors of lean ground beef, creamy cheese, and hearty cauliflower rice. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, this one-pan recipe is easy to prepare and offers a satisfying blend of textures. With its adaptability to various dietary needs and its potential for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Get ready for a delicious meal that’s both hearty and healthy!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 6 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 10 ounces frozen cauliflower rice (cooked according to the directions on the bag)
• 1 cup sour cream (or plain yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon butter (room temperature)
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (if needed)
• 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese (or any other shredded cheese that you have/prefer)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375˚F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onions for about 2 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds.
3. Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in spinach until wilted.
5. In a baking dish, combine cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and basil; mix until creamy.
6. Fold in the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 22-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let cool for 7-10 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg