There’s something truly magical about a casserole. It’s the epitome of comfort food—warm, hearty, and packed with flavors that remind us of home. One dish that stands out in the world of casseroles is the Angel Beef Casserole. A perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness, this recipe is a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, and even meal prep. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to try something new, this casserole will win over your taste buds and your heart.
Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish, explore its variations, learn about storage tips, and answer all your burning questions about Angel Beef Casserole.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to prepare and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, meaty delight.
- Budget-Friendly: With accessible ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and cheese, this recipe won’t break the bank.
- Versatile: You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences, dietary needs, or whatever you have in your pantry.
Ready to get started? Here’s everything you need to know about making the Angel Beef Casserole.
Ingredients for Angel Beef Casserole
Before you begin, gather all the ingredients. Using fresh, quality ingredients will make a big difference in the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must-have for bold, aromatic flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Provides the base for the beef mixture’s sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: For that classic, herbaceous touch.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and color.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To season the beef mixture perfectly.
For the Pasta and Creamy Layer:
- 12 oz angel hair pasta: Delicate and quick to cook, angel hair pasta is ideal for this casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess to the dish.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Makes the creamy layer rich and luxurious.
- ¼ cup milk: Helps smooth out the creamy mixture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a sharp, nutty finish.
Directions: How to Make Angel Beef Casserole
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook it according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente—soft but with a slight bite.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. To keep it from sticking, toss it with a small drizzle of olive oil.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned.
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Mixture
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sour cream, cream cheese, and milk until smooth. This mixture will create a luscious, creamy layer in the casserole.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
- Spread half of the cooked angel hair pasta evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon half of the creamy mixture over the pasta and spread it gently with a spatula.
- Top with half of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Repeat the layers: the remaining pasta, creamy mixture, and beef mixture.
Step 6: Add the Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of the casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a golden, bubbly crust.
Step 7: Bake and Serve
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8 generous portions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations of Angel Beef Casserole
This dish is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some variations to try:
1. Vegetarian Option
- Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrition.
2. Gluten-Free Adaptation
- Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
- Ensure all canned ingredients, like tomato sauce, are certified gluten-free.
3. Spicy Kick
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
4. Cheese Lover’s Delight
- Try using a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack, for a richer flavor profile.
5. Low-Carb Option
- Substitute the pasta with spiralized zucchini or cooked spaghetti squash for a lighter alternative.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This casserole stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the assembled casserole (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Oven: Reheat the entire casserole (covered with foil) at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Stovetop: Place smaller portions in a nonstick skillet with a splash of water, cover, and heat over medium until warmed through.
FAQs About Angel Beef Casserole
1. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.
2. What’s the best substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a lighter alternative to sour cream.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Spaghetti, penne, or even rotini can be used if you don’t have angel hair pasta on hand.
4. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Drain the pasta thoroughly after cooking and make sure to drain excess liquid from the canned tomatoes.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, adding cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or chopped chili peppers will bring some heat.
6. What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
Garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or steamed green beans complement this dish beautifully.
7. Can I freeze individual portions?
Yes, divide the casserole into single-serving portions and freeze them in airtight containers for grab-and-go meals.
8. How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking phase and only uncover it for the final 10-15 minutes.
9. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and provides a creamier texture.
10. What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?
Add a splash of milk or water to the casserole before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Conclusion
The Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is a dish that combines the best of comfort food: tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is sure to impress. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit your tastes, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Try it out today, and let the Angel Beef Casserole become a cherished part of your recipe collection. You won’t regret it!