5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole

Introduction

Looking for a simple, hearty dinner that comes together with just a handful of ingredients? This 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is a comforting family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned ground beef, mixed vegetables, creamy soup, and melted cheese, this casserole delivers satisfying flavor with minimal effort. It’s an excellent way to use pantry staples while creating a wholesome, filling meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (16-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 cups frozen hash browns (or cooked diced potatoes)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir the cream of mushroom soup into the cooked beef until well combined.
4. Add the thawed mixed vegetables and hash browns, mixing everything together evenly.
5. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Description

This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ground beef and colorful vegetables in every bite. The hash browns create a hearty base, while the melted cheddar adds rich flavor and a golden, bubbly topping. It’s a budget-friendly comfort food that’s easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or potluck gatherings.

Tips

• Brown the beef thoroughly and drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Thaw and drain frozen vegetables to prevent excess moisture.
• For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully.
• Allow the casserole to rest before serving so it holds together better.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Variations

• Tex-Mex Style: Use pepper jack cheese and add taco seasoning to the ground beef.
• Italian Twist: Substitute mozzarella cheese and cream of celery soup, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced onions, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Creamier Version: Stir in ½ cup sour cream before baking.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed buttery crackers or crispy fried onions over the cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Enjoy!

This 5-Ingredient Ground Beef and Vegetable Casserole is the perfect combination of simplicity, comfort, and flavor. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular part of your dinner rotation. Pair it with a crisp green salad, warm dinner rolls, or fresh fruit for a complete and delicious family meal. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!