Lean Ground Beef Casserole — Full Recipe

This hearty and comforting casserole combines lean ground beef with vegetables, tomato sauce, and cheese, baked together for a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g lean ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup carrots, diced

• 1 cup zucchini, diced

• 1 cup cooked pasta, rice, or diced potatoes

Sauce

• 1 can (400 g) crushed or diced tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

• Lightly grease a medium casserole dish.

2. Cook the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. Add lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

3. Add Vegetables and Sauce

1. Stir in carrots and zucchini.

2. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer 5–7 minutes so flavors combine.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Mix the cooked pasta (or rice/potatoes) with the beef mixture.

2. Transfer everything to the prepared casserole dish.

3. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

5. Bake

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

• Garnish with fresh parsley.

• Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

✅ Tips

• Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra vegetables.

• For a low-carb version, replace pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

• You can prepare the casserole ahead and refrigerate before baking.

⭐ Result: