Description

Looking for a hearty, easy dinner idea that screams comfort? This Creamy Ground Beef Casserole With Cream Cheese is a one-dish wonder that’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this dish is layered with seasoned beef, tender pasta, and a luscious cream cheese sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden. Whether you’re hunting for easy recipes, dinner ideas, or a quick meal that satisfies, this casserole hits every mark with its creamy texture and bold, savory taste.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

8 oz pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained

1/4 cup tomato paste

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup milk

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook 1 to 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

3. Stir in garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Add diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes.

4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add milk and mix until creamy.

5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until coated. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Preheat oven to 375°F. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish if needed. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella.

7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then garnish with green onions and serve.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese so it melts smoothly into the sauce.

Slightly undercook the pasta because it will continue cooking in the oven.

Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the casserole a creamier finish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 510
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cream cheese casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, dinner ideas, easy recipe, food ideas