Looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner option? This beef and cheese casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty ground beef, melty cheese, and crunchy bread cubes for a dish that’s both comforting and versatile. With basic ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a delicious way to use up pantry staples.
Ingredients for Beef and Cheese Casserole
- Plan and Purchase
- 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil (15 mL)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted sweet butter (15 grams)
- 1/2 large yellow onion, chopped (1/2 large)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (2 cloves)
- 1 pound chuck roast, medium grind (450 grams)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (30 mL)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (15 mL)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (30 mL)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (5 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (1 gram)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper (1 gram)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese (90 grams)
- 4 slices provolone cheese (4 slices)
- 1 1/2 cups dried bread cubes (150 grams)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef and Cheese Casserole
Prep and Prepare
- Choose Your Meat: If possible, grind your chuck roast to a coarser “chili” grind for a meatier texture. If unavailable, any pre-ground chuck beef will work perfectly for this recipe.
- Make the Bread Cubes: Dice fresh bread into cubes and dry them in a warm oven set at 200°F (93°C) for about an hour.
- Prepare Your Dish: For this recipe, use an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking dish for even cooking.
- Preheat Your Oven: Position an oven rack on the bottom level and preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
Cook the Filling
- Heat the Oil and Butter: Place a skillet over medium heat and add the grapeseed oil and butter. Once the butter is melted and starts to foam, proceed to the next step.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with the salt, pepper, cumin, sour cream, yellow mustard, and ketchup. Stir well to combine, then cook until the beef is browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Cool the Mixture: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool for about 10–15 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
- Prepare the Bread Layer: Spread the dried bread cubes evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.
- Add the Beef and Cheese: Stir the grated cheddar cheese into the cooled beef mixture, then spoon the mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Top with slices of provolone cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Presentation
Serve this warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven with a side salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy cheese, seasoned beef, and crispy bread cubes creates a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
This beef and cheese casserole is the perfect blend of simple preparation and rich flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving classic comfort food with minimal fuss. With its easy assembly and pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish is as practical as it is delicious.
So grab your baking dish and whip up this timeless casserole—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
