Ultimate Layered Beef Casserole Recipe
This Ultimate Layered Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. With rich layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and tender pasta, it delivers unbeatable flavor in every bite. Customize it by adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or spice it up with jalapeños for extra heat. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and offers gluten-free options for everyone to enjoy. This casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a must-try for weeknight meals!
Ingredients:
Ground beef or Italian sausage
Cooked lasagna noodles or pasta (gluten-free optional)
Ricotta or cottage cheese
Marinara or pizza sauce
Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese
Optional: diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach
Seasonings: red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, pepper
Instructions
Assemble the Casserole:
1. Layer the Dish:
Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture in the bottom of a casserole dish.
Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles or pasta.
Spread ricotta or cottage cheese evenly over the noodles.
Sprinkle with mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Repeat Layers:
Continue layering the beef mixture, pasta, and cheese until all ingredients are used.
Finish with a generous layer of cheese on top.
Bake:
1. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Variations and Tips:
Add Veggies: Boost nutrition with bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
Meat Options: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or pepperoni for a pizza-inspired twist.
Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with gouda or provolone for unique flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and marinara sauce.
Pro Tip: Broil the casserole for a few minutes to create a crispy, golden top layer.
Storage and Reheating
1. Refrigeration:
Cool completely and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
2. Freezing:
Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–60 minutes, or thaw overnight in the fridge for faster reheating.
This hearty layered beef casserole combines rich flavors, gooey cheese, and customizable ingredients, making it the perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. With options for gluten-free and vegetarian variations, it’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table!
BeefCasserole, CheesyDinner, GlutenFreeOptions, ComfortFood, EasyDinnerRecipe, LayeredCasserole
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Servings: 8
