Name: Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs lean ground beef; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup beef broth; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese; ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

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This Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a perfect blend of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that satisfies cravings for comfort food while still sneaking in plenty of veggies. The combination of ground beef, tender carrots, and colorful bell peppers creates a rich, hearty base that’s balanced by tangy tomato sauce and Italian herbs. Topped with melted mozzarella or Parmesan cheese and a crunchy breadcrumb crust, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Simple to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Ingredients

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

1.5 lbs lean ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
2 cups tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup beef broth
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

2. Cook the Beef

Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef to the other side. Cook the beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

3. Combine Ingredients

Stir the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, and beef broth into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese. If using, evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese for a crunchy topping.

5. Bake

Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add pasta or rice: Stir in cooked pasta or rice before baking to make it more filling.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for heat.
Vegetarian option: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Different cheese: Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta for a twist.
Herb substitutions: Fresh basil or oregano can replace Italian seasoning for a fresher taste.

Heating and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
This casserole freezes well — cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well but may require less cooking time and might be leaner, so consider adding a bit of oil.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Add the breadcrumbs right before baking for best texture.

What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes, and cooking time might increase slightly to thicken the sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Omit the breadcrumbs or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?

Drain excess liquid from the canned tomatoes and do not add extra broth beyond the recipe.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, mushrooms, or peas make great additions.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a mild flavor, while Parmesan adds a salty tang. Feel free to mix them.

Can I make this casserole spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes or diced fresh chili peppers to the sautéed vegetables.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

It’s ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and hearty meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. With its rich tomato sauce, tender vegetables, and melted cheese topping, it’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for any night of the week. Whether feeding family or guests, this casserole offers comfort, flavor, and ease all in one pan.