Hearty Layered Beef Casserole Recipe

The Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Recipe Your Family Will Crave

Crafting a supreme layered beef casserole brings comfort and excitement to your dinner table.

Hearty ingredients combine in a delightful dance of flavors and textures.

beef takes center stage, promising a satisfying meal that speaks to the soul.

Layers of rich, seasoned meat meld with creamy elements and crisp toppings.

Home cooks will appreciate the simplicity behind this impressive dish.

Aromas of herbs and spices fill the kitchen, building anticipation for the first delicious bite.

You cannot resist diving into this culinary masterpiece that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Why Supreme Layered Beef Casserole Is So Satisfying

  • Conquer Comfort Food: A hearty casserole that delivers rich, satisfying flavors perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
  • Master One-Dish Wonder: Streamline your cooking process with a single baking dish that combines protein, pasta, and creamy cheese in one delicious meal.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra vegetables to match your family's taste preferences without compromising the recipe's core deliciousness.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults will love the cheesy layers and savory beef, making mealtime a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Ingredients for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the rich base of this casserole.
  • Pasta: The foundational layer that provides a satisfying carbohydrate component.
  • Cream Cheese: A creamy ingredient that adds smoothness and depth to the dish.
Dairy and Cheese:
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
  • Shredded Cheese: Provides a melty, golden topping that enhances the overall flavor.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic, Onion: Aromatic vegetables that build a robust flavor base for the casserole.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle, rich undertone.
  • Tomato Sauce: Brings moisture and a classic tomato flavor to the beef mixture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the other ingredients.

How to Make Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Grab your favorite pasta and cook it exactly as the package suggests. Drain and set aside, letting it cool slightly while you prepare the other delicious components.

Step 2: Sizzle Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet and add:
  • Minced garlic
  • Diced onions

Sauté until the onions become translucent and release their sweet fragrance. Add ground beef and cook until it’s beautifully browned and no pink remains.

Step 3: Create Savory Meat Sauce

Pour tomato sauce into the beef mixture. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.

Stir everything together, letting the sauce simmer and develop rich, deep tastes.

Step 4: Whip Creamy Cheese Blend

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Sour cream

Blend until smooth and completely integrated, creating a luxurious, tangy spread.

Step 5: Assemble Mouthwatering Layers

Grab a baking dish and start layering:
  • First, spread cooked pasta as the base
  • Next, add the seasoned beef mixture
  • Then, dollop the creamy cheese blend across the top

Step 6: Bake to Golden Deliciousness

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the casserole. Slide into a preheated oven at 350°F.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden and the edges bubble with excitement. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

  • Rinse pasta after cooking to prevent sticking and ensure each strand remains separate.
  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, lighter casserole texture.
  • Add a dash of dried herbs like basil or oregano to the beef mixture for extra flavor depth.
  • Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smoother blending with sour cream.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help layers set and make serving easier.

Variations to Enjoy with Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed for topping.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap pasta with cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables. Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for added richness.
  • Spicy Mexican Spin: Add taco seasoning to ground beef. Top with jalapeños, cilantro, and pepper jack cheese for extra kick.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute ground beef with lentils, black beans, or plant-based meat crumbles. Maintain creamy cheese layers for satisfying texture.

Serving Suggestions for Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

  • Comfort Food Family Feast: Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad and warm garlic bread to create a complete meal that brings everyone together around the table.
  • Potluck Party Pleaser: Bring this dish to gatherings, as it travels well and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for shared meals with friends and colleagues.
  • Weekend Meal Prep Champion: Divide the casserole into individual portions and store in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the busy work week, saving time and enjoying a delicious homemade meal.
  • Cozy Movie Night Delight: Pair this rich, cheesy casserole with a chilled glass of red wine or a crisp beer for a relaxing evening of comfort food and entertainment.

Best Way to Store Supreme Layered Beef Casserole

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to preserve flavor and texture.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags for long-term storage up to 2-3 months.
  • Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming and maintain quality.

FAQs

  • Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Yes, this beef casserole has mild flavors and cheesy layers that most children enjoy. The combination of pasta, ground beef, and creamy cheese makes it appealing to younger palates.

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken work perfectly as substitutes for beef. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked and seasoned similarly.

  • How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean ground beef, low-fat cream cheese, and reduced-fat shredded cheese. You can also add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

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Hearty Layered Beef Casserole Recipe

Hearty Layered Beef Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Classic supreme layered beef casserole brings hearty comfort to midweek dinners. Rich beef layers, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal promising warmth and flavor you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy Components:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Seasonings and Base Ingredients:

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 8 ounces pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sauté minced garlic and diced onions until translucent.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet, break into crumbles, and cook until completely browned and no pink remains.
  4. Pour tomato sauce into the beef mixture, season with salt, pepper, and desired herbs, then simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, whisk cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
  6. Grease a casserole dish and create first layer with cooked pasta, spreading evenly across the bottom.
  7. Spread beef mixture over pasta layer, ensuring complete coverage.
  8. Dollop and gently spread cream cheese mixture over beef layer to create an even coating.
  9. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of the casserole.
  10. Bake in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
  • Experiment with whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a nutritious boost.
  • Enhance the flavor by adding herbs like oregano or basil to the beef mixture.
  • Consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein-packed, lower-fat alternative.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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