Homemade Cheesy Beef & Vegetable Casserole Recipe 🥩🧀🥦
This Homemade Cheesy Beef & Vegetable Casserole is the ultimate cozy dinner — hearty, creamy, and loaded with flavor! 💛 It’s packed with savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and layers of gooey melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you just want a fuss-free dish that satisfies every craving.
⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
Ingredients:
For the Beef Mixture:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 medium carrot, shredded or finely chopped
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
1 cup frozen peas or corn
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce & Casserole:
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richness)
2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (divided)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups cooked pasta, rice, or potatoes (your choice!)
For Topping:
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef & veggies:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, broccoli, and peas (or corn). Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender. Season with paprika, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Make the creamy sauce:
In the same skillet (or a saucepan), melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove raw taste. Slowly whisk in beef broth and milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheese + Parmesan until melted.
3. Combine everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta (or rice/potatoes), beef mixture, and creamy cheese sauce. Mix well until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly. Sprinkle the top with remaining shredded cheese.
5. Add crunchy topping:
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and parsley. Sprinkle over the casserole for a golden, crispy finish.
6. Bake to perfection:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Serve & enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations:
✅ Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
✅ Swap pasta for rice or roasted potatoes.
✅ Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
✅ Make ahead — assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.