Here’s a list of ingredients for a **ground beef and vegetable casserole** formatted with SEO-friendly keywords and bullet points:
- **1 lb ground beef** (lean ground beef for a healthier option)
- **1 cup diced onions** (yellow onions for flavor)
- **1 cup diced carrots** (fresh carrots for added nutrients)
- **1 cup diced celery** (celery for a crunchy texture)
- **1 cup diced bell peppers** (mixed bell peppers for color and sweetness)
- **2 cloves garlic** (minced garlic for a savory kick)
- **1 cup frozen peas** (or fresh peas for a pop of green)
- **1 cup corn kernels** (fresh, frozen, or canned corn)
- **1 can diced tomatoes** (14.5 oz, fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor)
- **1 cup tomato sauce** (or marinara sauce for richness)
- **1 cup beef broth** (low-sodium beef broth for better control of salt)
- **1 tsp dried oregano** (Italian seasoning for a herby touch)
- **1 tsp dried basil** (or fresh basil for a fresh flavor)
- **1/2 tsp smoked paprika** (or regular paprika for a hint of smokiness)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste)
- **2 cups cooked rice** (white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese** (or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for gooey topping)
- **1/2 cup breadcrumbs** (panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping)
- **1 tbsp olive oil** (for sautéing vegetables)
This **ground beef casserole recipe** is packed with **healthy vegetables**, making it a **family-friendly dinner** that’s both **easy to make** and **nutritious**. Perfect for **meal prep** or a **comfort food** dinner!
Steps
# How to Make a Delicious Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare? This **ground beef and vegetable casserole** is the perfect solution! Packed with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create a flavorful casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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## **Ingredients**
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and develops a golden, crispy top.
### **2. Cook the Ground Beef**
In a large skillet, brown the **ground beef** over medium heat. Break it into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
### **3. Sauté the Vegetables**
In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the **onion**, **garlic**, **bell pepper**, **carrots**, **zucchini**, and **mushrooms** until tender (about 5-7 minutes). This step builds layers of flavor and ensures the veggies are perfectly cooked.
### **4. Combine Ingredients**
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **beef broth**, **Italian seasoning**, **paprika**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
### **5. Add Rice or Pasta (Optional)**
For a heartier casserole, mix in **cooked rice or pasta** at this stage. This step is optional but adds extra texture and makes the dish more filling.
### **6. Assemble the Casserole**
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle **shredded cheddar cheese** on top. For a crunchy topping, add **breadcrumbs** over the cheese.
### **7. Bake to Perfection**
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
### **8. Let It Rest**
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for **5-10 minutes** before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve this **ground beef and vegetable casserole** with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also great for meal prep—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
- **Family-Friendly**: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting dish.
- **Nutritious**: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a balanced meal.
- **Versatile**: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Try this **ground beef and vegetable casserole** recipe today and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dinner!