There’s something deeply comforting about Grandma’s recipes — they’re hearty, satisfying, and made with love. Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole is no exception. This simple, easy-to-make dish brings together savory beef, tender pasta, melty cheese, and a touch of spice, resulting in a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s a perfect family dinner that serves 8 and can be made with pantry staples. Let’s jump in!
1. Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole Recipe (Serves 8)
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced orange bell pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Montreal Steak seasoning or Magic Dust seasoning (see below)
- 16 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 (10 oz) can Red Gold Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 cups frozen corn
- 2 ounces shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend
- 1 ½ cups dried macaroni pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend (for topping)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Optional: Magic Dust Seasoning Mix
Mix and store in a jar for future use:
- ½ cup paprika
- ¼ cup Kosher salt (finely ground)
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons mustard powder
- ¼ cup chili powder
- ¼ cup ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons ground black pepper
- ¼ cup granulated dried garlic
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
Tools You’ll Need
- 2-quart casserole dish
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish and set aside.
Next, you will need to cook the macaroni until just al dente. Then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks.
When the beef starts to brown, add the diced onion, orange bell pepper, red pepper flakes, and your choice of seasoning (Montreal Steak or Magic Dust). Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with green chiles, oregano, and chili powder. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Add the corn and 2 oz of cheese, then stir in the cooked macaroni.
Pour the mixture into your casserole dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
2. Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Casserole
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
Don’t overcook the pasta. It will continue to cook slightly while baking, so al dente is key.
Drain excess fat from the ground beef after browning if you’re not using lean beef. This keeps the casserole from getting greasy.
Simmer the sauce long enough to deepen the flavor. That 10-minute simmer really brings out the richness of the spices and tomatoes.
Let it rest after baking. This helps the casserole set up and makes serving cleaner and easier.
3. Variations & Substitutions
This casserole is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the pasta: Use rotini, penne, or even egg noodles.
- Go vegetarian: Substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans.
- Add more veggies: Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach blend in beautifully.
- Make it spicier: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or more chili powder.
- Use different cheese: Colby Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack all work well.
I’ve tried using pepper jack instead of the Mexican blend, and the extra kick was just what I needed on a chilly evening.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
This casserole stores and reheats like a dream — another reason it’s a favorite in my kitchen.
To Store:
- Let the casserole cool completely. Then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped in foil or in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
- In the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
- In the microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between.
- From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above. Or bake from frozen at 375°F for 45–50 minutes, covered.
I often make double and freeze one batch. It’s the perfect backup meal for busy weeknights or surprise guests.
There’s a reason Grandma’s Ground Beef Casserole has stood the test of time — it’s simple, filling, and full of flavor. It’s a dish that feels familiar yet exciting every time I make it. The combination of spicy tomatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheese brings everything together into one perfect bite.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone just learning to cook, this casserole is a reliable, delicious go-to. Make it your own, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every comforting forkful.
Read More: Easy Green Bean Casserole Recipe
