Cheesy Beef and Veggie Casserole

This hearty, comforting casserole is loaded with ground beef, colorful vegetables, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

· 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15 works well)
· 1 medium onion, diced
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
· 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
· 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
· 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
· 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
· 1 cup frozen corn
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· 1 teaspoon dried basil
· 1/2 teaspoon paprika
· Salt and black pepper to taste

For the cheese mixture:

· 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
· 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
· 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
· 4 oz (1/2 block) cream cheese, softened

For the topping:

· 1 package (about 8 oz) egg noodles or pasta of choice, cooked al dente
· 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the beef and vegetables:
   · In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
   · Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
   · Stir in broccoli, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, corn, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Prepare cheese mixture:
   · In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mozzarella, sour cream, and cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the casserole:
   · In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked noodles evenly.
   · Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles.
   · Drop spoonfuls of the cheese mixture over the beef layer and gently spread.
   · Top with remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese and Parmesan.
5. Bake:
   · Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   · Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is golden.
6. Serve:
   · Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
   · Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips

· Make ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
· Vegetable variations: Swap in zucchini, mushrooms, or peas based on preference.
· Lighter option: Use ground turkey and low-fat cheese alternatives.

Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal straight from the oven!