Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option that the whole family will love? Look no further than this 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole recipe. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or health-conscious individuals, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Plus, with just five simple ingredients, it’s budget-friendly too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why this ground beef and vegetable casserole should be on your weekly menu rotation. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying and wholesome meal in no time. The convenience factor alone makes this recipe a winner.
Another reason to love this casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Don’t have ground beef? No problem! You can substitute it with ground turkey or even vegetarian crumbles. The choice is yours.
Furthermore, this casserole is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. If you have picky eaters in your family who turn their noses up at vegetables, this dish will change their minds. The flavorful ground beef and savory sauce make the veggies taste absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
To make this 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole, you’ll need the following:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they are heated through.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– For an extra kick of flavor, you can add some spices to the ground beef while cooking. Try paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning.
– Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have available. Broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be great additions.
– If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey.
– Don’t forget to grease your baking dish before adding the casserole mixture to prevent sticking.
Variations and Substitutions
While this 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is delicious as is, you can get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas:
– Add a can of diced tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
– Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
– For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with vegetarian crumbles.
– If you’re not a fan of mixed vegetables, you can use your favorite veggies instead. Try spinach, mushrooms, or even butternut squash.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with some additional sides to make it even more satisfying. Here are a few serving suggestions:
– Serve with a side salad for some added freshness.
– Pair with a warm crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
– Enjoy with a glass of red wine or your favorite beverage.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled ingredients.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply divide the leftovers into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Of course! Fresh vegetables will work just as well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may require less time to cook.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in need of a quick and tasty dinner option, this 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is the answer. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that anyone can master. The combination of ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying dish that will keep you coming back for seconds. So, give it a try and let your taste buds rejoice!
5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole
A delicious and easy-to-make dinner option packed with flavor and nutrients. This ground beef and vegetable casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they are heated through.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts
