Cheesy Ground Beef Stroganoff Pasta Casserole
This Cheesy Ground Beef Stroganoff Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy flavors with tender pasta and savory ground beef. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, offering the warmth of a hearty casserole with the beloved taste of stroganoff. The creamy sauce, coupled with the melting cheddar cheese, creates a mouthwatering dish everyone will love. With minimal prep and easy-to-find ingredients, this casserole is both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as egg noodles or penne)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onions are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream into the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Pasta: Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring it’s evenly coated with the sauce and beef mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative.
- What other types of pasta can I use? You can use egg noodles, rotini, penne, or any short pasta.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- How long should I bake it if I’m making it from frozen? If baking from frozen, bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
- Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt? Yes, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer.
- How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy? Be sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the casserole, as it will soften further while baking.
- Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or peas would all be great additions.
- What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? You can use cream of chicken soup or make your own creamy sauce using butter, flour, and milk.
- Can I add more garlic? Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
- What can I serve this casserole with? A simple side salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli would complement this dish well.
- Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and cheese substitutes.
- Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.
- Is this casserole gluten-free? If using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, this casserole can be made gluten-free.
- How can I thicken the sauce? If the sauce is too thin, add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the beef mixture while cooking.
- Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned? Yes, sauté fresh mushrooms with the onions and garlic for added flavor.
- Can I make this without a casserole dish? You can use a baking dish or even a deep baking pan as a substitute.
- What if I don’t have an oven-safe dish? You can cook it in a regular skillet and top it with cheese for a stovetop version.
2 Best Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, make sure to cook it al dente (slightly firm) before adding it to the casserole. This prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy.
- Layer the Cheese: For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, try layering half the cheese into the casserole before baking, and then sprinkle the rest on top for the final few minutes of baking. This will give you a melty cheese layer throughout.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you made it ahead of time and didn’t bake it, cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to add a splash of milk or water to keep it moist.
Enjoy your cheesy, creamy ground beef stroganoff pasta casserole!
