Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake – The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food dish that brings together hearty ingredients, creamy textures, and a satisfying flavor in every bite, look no further than this Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake. This rich and savory ground beef casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or whenever you need a warm, fulfilling meal. With a mix of cream of mushroom soup, ground beef, and cheesy pasta, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake

This Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake is not just another casserole; it’s a one-dish wonder that hits every note of comfort, convenience, and flavor. Here’s what makes this recipe stand out:

• Super simple to make: Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have.
• Creamy and cheesy: Thanks to the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and two types of cheese.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein-rich ground beef and satisfying pasta.
• Customizable: You can easily add veggies or swap out cheeses based on what’s in your fridge.

Let’s dive deep into every detail so you can master this delicious creamy beef bake with confidence.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake ingredients and why each one plays a crucial role:

Ground Beef

The main protein in this dish, ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce.

Onion and Garlic

These aromatics enhance the flavor and bring a savory depth to the dish.

Cream of Mushroom Soup

The base of our creamy sauce, this ingredient adds an earthy, umami element and a smooth texture.

Sour Cream

This adds tanginess and an extra creamy consistency to the sauce.

Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese

A combination of sharp and gooey cheeses makes for the ultimate melted topping.

Cooked Pasta

Penne or rotini work best as they hold the sauce well, but any short pasta will do.

Olive Oil, Thyme, Salt, and Pepper

These add layers of flavor that bring the whole dish together.

Parsley (Optional)

For a fresh touch and pop of color at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the best-ever Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Add 1 chopped medium onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Add 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup and 1/2 cup sour cream. Stir to combine and heat for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and warm.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Fold in 2 cups of cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well). Stir until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot!

Nutritional Value (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 480-550 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 30g

(Note: Nutritional values will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.)

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to personalize your Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake? Try these tasty twists:

• Add Vegetables: Spinach, peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers blend well with the creamy sauce.
• Try Different Cheeses: Gouda, provolone, or Monterey Jack can add different flavor profiles.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Use Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap beef with turkey or chicken.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; al dente is best so it doesn’t get mushy.
• Taste your sauce before baking and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Let it rest for a few minutes after baking to set and cool slightly.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy beef casserole is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with:

• Green Salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic Bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed Green Beans or roasted broccoli

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. Be sure to use a freezer-safe dish and wrap tightly.

To Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze the baked casserole? Absolutely. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Thaw overnight before reheating.

3. What pasta works best for this recipe? Penne and rotini are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well, but elbow macaroni or shells work too.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes. Swap ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini.

5. How do I avoid a watery casserole? Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef and use cooked, drained pasta.

6. What’s a good substitute for cream of mushroom soup? You can use homemade white sauce or cream of chicken soup as an alternative.

7. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes! Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture with more protein and less fat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake is a game-changing recipe that combines comfort, convenience, and crave-worthy flavor in one dish. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, it’s a recipe anyone can master, and everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or prepping meals for the week, this hearty, creamy, cheesy ground beef casserole is the perfect go-to. Make it once, and it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Don’t forget to sprinkle on that fresh parsley, scoop out a generous portion, and enjoy the rich, savory goodness that only a homemade Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake can deliver!

Print