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Best Cheesy Ground Beef Skillet Casserole (Easy 30-Minute Dinner)

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This cheesy ground beef skillet casserole comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect quick and impressive dinner for hosting or a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or rotini; or 1 cup uncooked rice, cooked separately)
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a separate baking dish, lightly grease it with cooking spray.
  2. Cook your pasta (if using) according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Fold in the cooked pasta (or rice) until evenly coated.
  8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature sour cream to prevent curdling. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. If the casserole seems dry before baking, add a splash of beef broth. If too soupy, simmer an extra 2-3 minutes before adding cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy ground beef casserole, skillet dinner, 30-minute meal, ground beef recipe, easy casserole, one-pan dinner

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