Ground Beef Casserole

This Ground Beef Casserole with cauliflower rice is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for family dinners or when entertaining guests, this casserole combines delicious flavors with wholesome ingredients. Its creamy texture and cheesy topping will make it a hit at any gathering, while the use of cauliflower rice keeps it lighter without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of ground beef, spinach, and melted cheese creates a rich and satisfying meal.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this casserole is both hearty and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Easy Clean-Up: With just one skillet and a baking dish used, you’ll spend less time cleaning up after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier. To whip up this ground beef casserole effectively, gather your kitchen essentials before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for browning the beef evenly and sautéing vegetables quickly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat without scratching your cookware.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Provides ample space for baking the casserole to perfection without overflow.

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.

Main Ingredients

• 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

this recipe

How to Make Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375˚F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly from the start.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

• Add the lean ground beef to the skillet.
• Season it with Italian seasoning, sweet paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Break up the meat using a wooden spoon while cooking until it’s completely browned.

Step 4: Add Spinach

• Stir in fresh baby spinach. You may need to add it in batches depending on your skillet’s size.
• Cook while stirring frequently until wilted, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish

• Remove from heat and carefully drain any excess liquid from the skillet.
• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix cooked cauliflower rice, sour cream, butter, and dried basil. Stir until creamy; if needed, add milk for consistency.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

• Add the prepared beef mixture from the skillet into the baking dish.
• Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Top with shredded cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 to 25 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted.

Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your ground beef casserole stand for about 7 to 10 minutes before slicing into portions. Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef Casserole

Serving ground beef casserole is a delightful experience, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its comforting flavors.

Individual Portions

• Serve in bowls for a warm, cozy meal.
• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop adds creaminess and tang.
• Chopped Green Onions: Freshness and crunch enhance the dish.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a buttery, garlic flavor that complements the casserole.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Casserole

Making your ground beef casserole truly special requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose Quality Beef: Lean ground beef helps keep the casserole from being greasy and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the meat to develop rich flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and spices elevate the overall taste of your casserole.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper for your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheese blends for varied flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your ground beef casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Provides a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
2. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds variety and nutrition.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes offer a delicious texture contrast.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a lovely pop of sweetness next to savory flavors.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances out the dish’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a ground beef casserole is simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and melting. Make sure your sour cream and butter are at room temperature for a creamy consistency.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim to brown it just until it’s fully cooked, then remove it from heat to retain tenderness.
• Not seasoning properly: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the overall taste of your ground beef casserole.
• Skipping the draining step: Failing to drain excess liquid from the cooked beef can result in a soggy casserole. Always drain before mixing with other ingredients for the best texture.
• Using cold cauliflower rice: Cold cauliflower rice doesn’t blend well with warm ingredients. Ensure it’s heated as per package instructions before adding it to the mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover ground beef casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure the casserole cools completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Ground Beef Casserole

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Ground Beef Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F and cover the casserole with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk if necessary to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this ground beef casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use other meats in my Ground Beef Casserole?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes for ground beef if you’re looking for lighter options.

How do I make my Ground Beef Casserole spicier?

To add spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the meat mixture before baking.

Can I prepare my Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything and store it in the fridge overnight before baking. Just remember to adjust cooking time if using cold ingredients.

What sides go well with Ground Beef Casserole?

Serve your casserole with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef casserole is not only comforting but also versatile enough to customize according to your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers, this dish is sure to satisfy. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or veggies to make it your own!

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Ground Beef Casserole

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of this Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice. Perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings, this dish is a delightful blend of lean ground beef, nutrient-rich spinach, and creamy cheese, all nestled atop a base of fluffy cauliflower rice. Not only does it deliver on flavor, but it also offers a lighter alternative to traditional casseroles without compromising on taste. With an easy preparation process and minimal cleanup, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

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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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté diced onions for about 2 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 20 seconds.
3. Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
4. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
5. In a baking dish, combine cooked cauliflower rice with sour cream and dried basil until creamy.
6. Mix in the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 22-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole (180g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 530mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added spice, mix in jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Customize with your favorite cheese blends.