Cheesy Meat Casserole

Here’s a delicious recipe for a Cheesy Meat Casserole that combines ground meat, pasta, and plenty of cheese for a comforting meal!

Cheesy Meat Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey or sausage)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen, such as peas and carrots)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups cooked pasta (like penne or macaroni)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
• Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Meat:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked pasta and cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
5. Add Cheese:
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for added crunch.
6. Bake:
   • Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and add the remaining cheese on top. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy meat casserole!

Tips:

• Variations: Feel free to add spices or herbs to customize the flavor, or swap in different cheeses based on your preference.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add extra baking time if baking from cold.

Enjoy your comforting cheesy meat casserole!