A hearty and comforting casserole packed with ground beef, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Perfect for a family dinner!
Ingredients:
- For the Beef and Vegetable Layer:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can mixed vegetables, drained (or use 2 cups fresh or frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- For the Topping:
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery or chicken)
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
- Optional: Bread crumbs for topping.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef and Vegetable Layer:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), mixed vegetables, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a seperate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and the milk or beef broth, stir until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef and vegetable layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Optional: sprinkle bread crumbs over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Potato Topping: Instead of the cream soup and cheese topping, you can use mashed potatoes. Simply spread mashed potatoes over the beef and vegetable layer and bake until golden.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Add Layers: You can add a layer of cooked rice or pasta to the bottom of the casserole for a more substantial meal.
- Make ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.