Ground Beef Casserole – Easy, Hearty & Ready in 30 Minutes!
When you need a quick family dinner idea that’s hearty, satisfying, and on the table in under 30 minutes, this Ground Beef Casserole is the answer. It combines seasoned beef, pantry veggies, and a cheesy cornbread topping into one golden, bubbly bake that tastes like comfort food at its best.
This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a weeknight lifesaver. With affordable ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll find yourself coming back to this dish over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 30-Minute Dinner – Faster than takeout, but way more satisfying.
- One-Dish Wonder – Protein, carbs, and veggies all in one.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Kids love it, adults love it—it’s comfort food that works every time.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Customizable – Add extra veggies, change the spices, or make it spicy.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (or tomato soup)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornbread mix (like Jiffy)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. -
Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic; cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat. -
Mix the Filling
Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, condensed soup, and spices. Simmer 3–5 minutes. Transfer to prepared baking dish. -
Prepare the Topping
In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, egg, milk, and shredded cheese. Spread gently over the beef mixture. -
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until topping is golden and filling is bubbly. -
Serve
Let cool 5 minutes before scooping and serving hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Drain the Fat – Prevents the casserole from being greasy.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Melts better than pre-shredded.
- Add Extra Veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini blend right in.
- Let it Rest – Resting 5 minutes before serving helps it set.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Ground Beef Casserole with:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted green beans or broccoli
Easy Variations
- Cheese Lover’s – Add pepper jack or mozzarella to the topping.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style – Add bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions.
- Spicy Kick – Stir jalapeños or hot sauce into the filling.
- Vegetarian Version – Use lentils or mushrooms instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free cornbread mix and condensed soup.
Ground Beef Casserole – Easy, Hearty & Ready in 30 Minutes!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 dish.
- Cook beef with onion and garlic until browned. Drain fat.
- Stir in tomatoes, corn, soup, and spices. Simmer 5 minutes. Transfer to dish.
- Mix cornbread mix, egg, milk, and cheese. Spread on top.
- Bake 20–25 minutes until topping is golden.
- Let rest 5 minutes. Scoop and enjoy hot!