Grandma's Ground Beef Casserole

There's something undeniably heartwarming about the aroma of a casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling the home with the promise of a delicious meal. Grandma's Cozy Ground Beef Casserole stands out as a timeless dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. It isn't just a recipe; it's a collection of cherished memories, a symbol of family togetherness, and a source of warmth on chilly evenings. This casserole has been a staple in many households, passed down through generations and lovingly prepared for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy weeknight dinners.

Experience the heartwarming flavors of Grandma's Cozy Ground Beef Casserole, a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This hearty casserole is made with simple ingredients like ground beef, elbow macaroni, mixed vegetables, and melty cheddar cheese, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Easy to customize based on your family's preferences, this meal not only nourishes the body but also fosters memories around the dinner table. Discover how this cherished recipe can bring loved ones together and warm your home with its delightful aroma.

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Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Incorporate the uncooked macaroni into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the meat mixture. Let simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni begins to soften.

Fold in the frozen mixed vegetables and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly in the dish.

Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly over the top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6