Description
There’s something special about the aroma of a cheesy, bubbling casserole filling your kitchen — it instantly feels like home. This Southern Cheesy Ground Beef Bake is the definition of hearty comfort food. With tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and golden melted cheese, it’s a family favorite that’s perfect for cozy weeknights, Sunday dinners, or potlucks. It’s simple to prepare, made with pantry-friendly ingredients, and guaranteed to bring everyone back for seconds.
Ingredients
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1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
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1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
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1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
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1 cup sour cream
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2 cups cooked rice or cooked macaroni
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
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½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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1 cup frozen corn, thawed
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1 cup frozen peas or green beans (optional)
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2 tablespoons butter
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¼ cup breadcrumbs or crushed buttery crackers
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Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
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Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and chili powder. Stir and cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.
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In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
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Add the cooked beef mixture, rice or macaroni, corn, peas, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly into the dish. Top with remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
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Melt the butter and mix with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.
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Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes