Cheesy Ground Beef and Tomato Casserole

Introduction

Cheesy Ground Beef and Tomato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. This hearty baked dish combines seasoned ground beef, juicy tomatoes, a creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese for a satisfying family meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients

500 g ground beef

2 cups cooked pasta or diced cooked potatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 can diced tomatoes, drained

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instruction

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the onion until softened, then add the garlic.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Stir in the diced tomatoes and cherry tomatoes.

Mix the sour cream and cream cheese together until smooth.

Fold the cooked pasta or potatoes into the beef mixture.

Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.

Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish.

Spread the remaining cheeses evenly over the top.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Method

Browning the beef first develops a rich, savory flavor. Mixing the creamy ingredients into the filling keeps the casserole moist and creamy while baking. Finishing with a generous layer of cheese creates a delicious golden crust that makes every bite extra satisfying.

Benefits

High in protein from the ground beef and cheese.

Provides calcium for healthy bones.

Contains vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes.

Easy to customize with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 480–550 per serving

Protein: 28 g

Carbohydrates: 20–30 g

Fat: 30 g

Fiber: 3 g

Calcium: Good source

Iron: Good source

Tips

Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.

Add mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving so it slices more easily.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Tomato Casserole is a warm, filling meal that delivers rich flavors and a creamy, cheesy finish. Simple ingredients and easy preparation make it an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals that everyone will enjoy.