Description
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, melted sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep, reheating beautifully for leftovers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 small green bell pepper, diced
- Optional: 2 medium tomatoes, sliced or diced
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped dill pickles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and a splash of oil; cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to distribute seasonings.
- Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the beef layer. Add optional mix-ins like tomatoes or pickles if using.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use 80/20 ground beef for juiciness; leaner beef may dry out. Grate cheese fresh for better melting. Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow layers to set for cleaner slicing. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square slice
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 38
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: burger bake, cheddar cheese casserole, meal prep, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meals, cheesy bake