Delicious Angel Beef Casserole

Instructions for Making Angel Beef Casserole

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. For this recipe, elbow macaroni works best, but feel free to use any short pasta like penne or rotini.

2. Prepare the Beef and Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and all the flavors meld together.

3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened, add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the flavorful sauce. If you’re using sour cream, now is the time to stir it in for added creaminess.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, covering the casserole evenly.

5. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Serve your Angel Beef Casserole with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for the perfect comfort meal!

Tips for the Best Angel Beef Casserole

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some extra vegetables to boost the nutrition of your casserole. You can add frozen peas, bell peppers, or zucchini to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
• Use Different Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: This casserole reheats wonderfully! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.

What to Serve with Angel Beef Casserole

While Angel Beef Casserole is hearty on its own, pairing it with some simple sides can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with this cheesy casserole.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or green beans are a great way to add some healthy veggies to the meal.
• Steamed Rice: For a filling and comforting side, serve the casserole with a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Angel Beef Casserole is a perfect comfort food dish that combines hearty beef, cheesy goodness, and rich tomato flavors all in one easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re serving it to your family for a cozy dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can create a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for more. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of a homemade casserole that’s as comforting as it is tasty!