Best 2 Italian Ground Beef Casserole Recipes

Indulge in the hearty flavors of Italy with this delectable Italian Ground Beef Casserole, a symphony of rich and savory ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. This casserole features a succulent combination of ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, all enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce. The dish is not only a culinary delight but also a versatile culinary creation that lends itself to various interpretations and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a classic rendition or a more customized version, this recipe offers endless possibilities to create a dish that perfectly suits your cravings. From variations with different types of pasta to creative additions of vegetables and herbs, the Italian Ground Beef Casserole is a blank canvas waiting for your culinary artistry. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with this irresistible casserole.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

MEATY ZITI CASSEROLE WITH GROUND BEEF AND ITALIAN SAUSAGE RECIPE

Meaty Ziti Casserole With Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Recipe image

Provided by á-49759

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef, at least 85%
1/2 pound bulk sweet Italian sausage
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried leaf basil
1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
salt and pepper, to taste
8 ounces ziti pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese, whole milk
3/4 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 large egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 to 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

Steps:

Heat the oven to 350° F (180° C/Gas 4). Lightly grease or spray a 2 1/2 to 3-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, sausage, and onion. Cook, stirring, until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. Add the garlic to the meat mixture and cook, stirring, for 1 minute longer. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 to 12 minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper, as needed. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, and 1 cup of Mozzarella cheese. Stir until well blended. While the sauce is simmering, cook the ziti in boiling salted water following directions on the package. Drain well. Add the hot drained pasta to the bowl with the ricotta cheese mixture. Toss lightly to blend. Add 2 cups of the meat sauce to the ziti mixture. Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread about half of the meat sauce over the pasta, then top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and half of the remaining Mozzarella. Top with the remaining pasta mixture, then finish with the remaining meat sauce and remaining Mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley. Bake for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly around the edges.

ITALIAN GROUND BEEF CASSEROLE

Italian Ground Beef Casserole image

A wonderful casserole to serve to company. Reheats well.

Provided by Anita Hoffman

Categories Casseroles

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

8 oz noodles ( fine preferred)
2 lb ground beef
1 chopped onion
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
15 oz tomato sauce or spaghetti sauce
8 oz cream cheese softened
1/2 c cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
1/2 c sour cream
1/3 c chopped green onion
1 c shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese

Steps:

1. Cook noodles to desired doneness; drain.
2. Brown ground beef; drain.
3. Simmer ground beef, onion, salt, pepper and tomato sauce. Bring mixture to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Cream the cream cheese, cottage cheese and sour cream together. Add chopped green onions.
5. Pour over noodles and mix well. Layer 1/2 the noodle mixture and 1/2 the ground beef mixture in casserole dish. Repeat.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Tips:

Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the casserole.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink. Drain the excess grease.
Add a variety of vegetables to the casserole, such as onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
Use a flavorful tomato sauce as the base for the casserole. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own.
Season the casserole with Italian herbs and spices, such as basil, oregano, thyme, and garlic.
Top the casserole with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese before baking.
Serve the casserole with a side of pasta, rice, or bread.

Conclusion:

Italian ground beef casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With a few simple tips, you can make a delicious and satisfying casserole that the whole family will enjoy.