Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that combines all your favorite flavors into one pot, and that’s precisely what you’ll find in this Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled the entire house, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted something warm and filling to bring us together. As I layered the ingredients in the crock pot, I could practically see the smiles on their faces already.

This casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With every bite, you’re greeted with the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy gathering with friends, or just for yourself, this recipe delivers satisfaction that lingers long after the last forkful.

As we all sit down and enjoy this hearty meal, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. This Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole is reminiscent of family dinners from my childhood, where laughter and good food filled the air. Now, as I share this recipe with you, I hope it brings the same joy to your table as it has to mine.

Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole Shopping List

The ingredients in this casserole are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in creating a warm, hearty meal. The combination of ground beef, cheese, and pasta comes together to create a fulfilling dish that everyone will love.

• 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef: The base of this casserole, providing rich flavor and protein.
• 1 cup of diced onion: Adds aromatic freshness and a savory depth.
• 1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor.
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano: Gives a burst of flavor and texture.
• 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel tomatoes: Adds a slight kick to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to elevate all flavors.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning: Enhances the herbaceous notes.
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of spaghetti sauce: Forms the delicious sauce base.
• 1 cup of water: Helps to combine the ingredients.
• 8 ounces of cream cheese: Brings creaminess and richness.
• 1 cup of cottage cheese: Adds a light, creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup of sour cream: Provides tanginess and moisture.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Gives a fresh crunch and color.
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder: Adds a warm garlic flavor.
• 12 ounces of uncooked cavatappi pasta: The perfect shape to hold all the delicious sauce.
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top.
• 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp taste that contrasts well with the creamy ingredients.

Making Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole

Preparing this Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps together so you can create this cozy meal for yourself.

1. Start by browning the ground beef in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it gets evenly browned. You’ll know it’s ready when it loses its pink color and starts to brown nicely. This step is crucial as it builds flavor.
2. Once the beef is about halfway cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the onions to soften and become fragrant. This should take around five minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
3. Now it’s time to add some flavor! To the browned beef, incorporate the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the spaghetti sauce and water. This mixture will help keep the casserole moist and flavorful. Pour this mixture into the skillet, stirring to combine everything well.
5. In another bowl, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix until smooth. This creamy blend will add richness to the casserole.
6. Now, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Pour half of the spaghetti sauce mixture into the bottom of your 6-quart crock pot. Spread it out evenly to cover the base.
7. Add half of the uncooked cavatappi pasta onto the sauce in the crock pot. Make sure it’s spread evenly across the bottom to ensure even cooking.
8. Top the pasta with half of the meat sauce mixture, spreading it out to cover the pasta.
9. Next, carefully spread all of the creamy cheese mixture over the meat sauce layer. This step adds a delicious creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the rest of the ingredients.
10. Now, add the remaining pasta on top of the cheese mixture, followed by the last portion of the meat sauce, and finally the remaining spaghetti sauce. Ensure everything is layered nicely.
11. Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for three hours. You’ll notice the delicious aroma filling your kitchen during this time.
12. After three hours, stir everything well to combine the layers. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover again and let it sit for another ten minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become gooey.

Things Worth Knowing

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve this casserole with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetable Boost: Add some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a pop of freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor profile.

Serve This Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole With

This Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole is a delightful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and occasions. Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is a perfect side to accompany this casserole, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
• Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your table.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or potlucks, where everyone will love a hearty, home-cooked meal.
• Winter Nights: Serve this casserole on chilly winter nights when comfort food is a must. It’s sure to warm you up!
• Movie Night: Pair it with a fun movie night; it’s the ultimate cozy food!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole is a warm, flavorful dish that brings people together over a hearty meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly winter night or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; its comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a winner for any occasion.

Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole

The ultimate comfort food for chilly nights! This Crock Pot Homestyle Ground Beef Casserole combines tender ground beef, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta for a satisfying meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

• Large Nonstick Skillet
• 6-quart slow cooker

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, undrained
• 10 ounces Rotel tomatoes undrained
• salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 24 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 1 cup water
• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 green onions sliced
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 12 ounces uncooked cavatappi pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

 

• Brown ground beef in a large nonstick skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. When it is about halfway cooked, add the diced onion. Drain off excess grease.
• Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper.
• Combine spaghetti sauce and water.
• In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream until smooth. Stir in green onions and garlic powder.
• Pour half of the spaghetti sauce in the bottom of a 6-quart crock pot.
• Add half the pasta to the crock pot.
• Top with half the meat sauce.
• Spread all of the cream cheese mixture over the meat sauce.
• Add remaining pasta and top it with the remaining meat sauce and then the remaining spaghetti sauce.
• Cover and cook on LOW for 3 hours.
• Stir well. Sprinkle cheese on top and cover for another 10 minutes.

Notes

• Tip 1: Ricotta cheese can be used instead of cottage cheese.
• Tip 2: To make this casserole spicy, add half a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes.

Keyword crock pot casserole, easy family dinners, ground beef recipes, slow cooker meals

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!