Homemade Cheesy Beef & Vegetable Casserole
A delightful blend of ground beef, tender vegetables, and a creamy cheddar cheese topping that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal.
Ingredients
For the casserole base
- 1 lb ground beef Lean ground beef adds savory richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Sautéed onion adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with savory essence.
- 2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 cup green beans, chopped Lends crisp and refreshing taste.
- 1 cup corn kernels Offers pops of flavor.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced Contributes heartiness.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce Adds moisture and tangy richness.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Imparts savory depth.
- 1 tsp dried thyme Provides earthiness and warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
For the topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Provides the creamy, melty topping.
For sautéing
- 2 tbsp olive oil Adds smooth richness to the base.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until both are fragrant and the onions become translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir continuously until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the diced carrots, chopped green beans, corn kernels, and diced potatoes. Sauté the mixture for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly.
- Mix in the crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
- Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider using different types of cheese, adding your favorite vegetables, or spicing it up with cayenne pepper. You can also prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.