Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole with cauliflower rice is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With its hearty flavors and simple ingredients, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Twist: Featuring cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh spinach gives this dish a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe serves up to four people, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make this ground beef casserole efficiently, you’ll need the right tools. Here’s what you should have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef evenly while providing enough space to sauté the onions and garlic.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for layering all the ingredients together for even cooking and easy serving.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for breaking up the ground beef as it cooks without damaging your skillet.

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 Meat Mixture:

• 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

For the Casserole Base:

• 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)

For Topping:

• 8 ounces shredded Italian blend cheese (or any other shredded cheese that you have/prefer)

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375˚F. This step ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large 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 it with Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until it is completely browned.

Step 4: Add Spinach

Stir in fresh spinach into the beef mixture.
1. You may need to do this in batches depending on your skillet size.
2. Cook while stirring frequently for about 1 minute or until spinach is wilted.

Step 5: Prepare Cauliflower Rice Base

Remove the skillet from heat, drain any liquid if necessary, and set aside.
In a large baking dish:
1. Combine cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil.
2. Stir well until creamy; add milk if necessary to achieve desired consistency.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add the prepared beef mixture into the baking dish with cauliflower rice base.
1. Stir everything together until fully combined.
2. Top with shredded cheese evenly across the surface.

Step 7: Bake Casserole

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven.
Bake for about 22 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese has melted beautifully.

Step 8: Serve

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

Enjoy this deliciously comforting Ground Beef Casserole at your next meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Ground beef casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the casserole.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve slices of warm garlic bread alongside the casserole for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Topped with Avocado

• Adding sliced or diced avocado on top provides a creamy contrast and boosts the nutritional value of your meal.

With Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled vegetables offers a tangy flavor that balances the hearty ground beef casserole perfectly.

Paired with Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients while keeping the meal healthy.

As Leftovers

• Enjoy it as a quick lunch the next day! Reheat and serve with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

Creating the perfect ground beef casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use lean ground beef: This helps reduce excess grease, leading to a healthier and more flavorful casserole.
• Cook cauliflower rice properly: Ensure it’s cooked according to package directions for optimal texture and moisture level.
• Season generously: Don’t shy away from adding more spices or herbs based on your taste preferences; this enhances overall flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to cut into portions.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheese blends, like sharp cheddar or pepper jack, for unique flavor profiles.
• Add extra veggies: Incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can boost nutrition while adding variety to your casserole.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Casserole

To round out your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with ground beef casserole.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic complement the savory flavors of the casserole.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty taste that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and a bit of tang, enhancing the overall dining experience.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables serves as a nutritious side that balances the meal.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob provides a fun, interactive element to your dinner table.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory dishes like casseroles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Ground Beef Casserole, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious dish every time.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess liquid can make the casserole watery. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for perfect consistency.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting spices will lead to bland flavors. Always season your ground beef and vegetables properly for a more flavorful casserole.
• Not allowing it to rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Letting it sit for 7-10 minutes allows it to set up nicely.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.
• Ignoring cheese options: Using low-quality cheese may affect texture and taste. Choose a good quality cheese that melts well for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Ground Beef Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Best used within 2-3 months for maximum flavor.

Reheating Ground Beef Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350˚F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef Casserole that may help you out!

Can I use other types of meat in this Ground Beef Casserole?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I customize my Ground Beef Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor!

What if I don’t have cauliflower rice?

You can replace cauliflower rice with cooked quinoa or brown rice as an alternative base.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything up to baking, cover, and store in the fridge overnight before baking when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Its creamy texture combined with flavorful ground beef makes it perfect for dinner any night of the week. Feel free to customize it by adding more veggies or swapping out cheeses based on what you have on hand. Give it a try!