Casserole Easy Weeknight Dinner: Quick & Delicious Recipes

Italian bake casserole: just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, fragrant herbs, and a warm, comforting meal shared with loved ones, doesn’t it? I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the lookout for dishes that are both delicious and relatively easy to prepare, and this recipe ticks all the boxes. Forget slaving away in the kitchen for hours; this Italian bake casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings.

Casseroles, in general, have a long and fascinating history, evolving from humble peasant fare to sophisticated culinary creations. The beauty of an Italian-inspired casserole lies in its versatility. It’s a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients – think ripe tomatoes, flavorful sausage, creamy ricotta, and perfectly cooked pasta – all layered together and baked to golden perfection. This dish draws inspiration from classic Italian-American comfort food, a cuisine born from the traditions of Italian immigrants who adapted their beloved recipes to the ingredients available in their new home.

What’s not to love? The combination of textures – the soft pasta, the creamy cheese, the savory meat – is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying and filling, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. And let’s be honest, who can resist that cheesy, bubbly top? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (8 ounce) package elbow macaroni, cooked according to package directions
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
• Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables

1. Get started by browning the ground beef. Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy casserole.
2. Add the onion and garlic. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Tomato Sauce Base

1. Incorporate the tomato products. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine with the beef and vegetables. This forms the base of our flavorful casserole sauce.
2. Add the beans, corn, and spices. Stir in the rinsed and drained kidney beans and corn. Then, add the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.
3. Simmer the sauce. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be!

Combining the Ingredients and Baking

1. Preheat the oven. While the sauce is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the macaroni. Make sure your elbow macaroni is cooked according to the package directions. Drain it well. Overcooked macaroni will result in a mushy casserole, so aim for al dente.
3. Combine the sauce and macaroni. Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the tomato sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
4. Add cheese and stir. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) to the mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and incorporated. This will make the casserole extra creamy and delicious.
5. Transfer to a baking dish. Pour the macaroni and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish.
6. Top with remaining cheese. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden-brown, bubbly crust.
7. Bake the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
8. Let it rest. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve and enjoy! Serve the casserole hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream (if desired) and chopped green onions for garnish. This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier casserole, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a spicier chili powder.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Use different beans: You can substitute the kidney beans with other types of beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans.
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables to make a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can also use a plant-based ground beef substitute.
• Add a crunchy topping: For a crunchy topping, mix together crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole before baking.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Freezing instructions: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great choice.
• Garlic bread or crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of paprika.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Protein: 25-35 grams per serving
• Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams per serving

This easy weeknight casserole is a family favorite for a reason. It’s quick, easy, and customizable to your liking. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your new weeknight savior! Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly easy to throw together, this casserole easy weeknight dinner is an absolute must-try. The creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked pasta, and the flavorful protein all combine to create a symphony of deliciousness that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be won over by this one.

But the best part? It’s so versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. For a vegetarian option, swap out the meat for roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini. Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and fiber. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. Gruyere, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar would all be fantastic additions.

Serving suggestions are endless. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect accompaniment to balance out the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also a great choice for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted asparagus or steamed green beans. And don’t forget the toppings! A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce can all add a little extra something special.

Looking for variations? Consider adding a layer of crispy fried onions on top before baking for added texture and flavor. Or, stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat. You can even make it ahead of time! Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure that it’s heated through.

I truly believe that this casserole easy weeknight dinner will become a staple in your household. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, but you still want to serve a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s also a great option for potlucks, parties, or any other occasion where you need to feed a crowd.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please come back and let me know what you think! I’m always eager to hear about your experiences and any variations you might have tried. Share your photos, your tips, and your stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I’m sure this casserole will become a family favorite, and you’ll be making it for years to come. Don’t forget to rate the recipe after you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps other readers find and enjoy this delicious and easy meal.