Skillet Beef Casserole: Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Skillet beef casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need a warm, satisfying meal. This skillet beef casserole recipe is inspired by my grandmother Elsie, who could whip up a delicious meal from seemingly nothing. I remember her always having a casserole on hand, ready to feed a crowd (or just a hungry granddaughter). Now, I’m excited to share this updated, quick skillet version with you all.

Why You Will Love This skillet beef casserole Recipe

This skillet beef casserole is pure comfort food, ready in under an hour. It’s hearty, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, cooking it all in one skillet means fewer dishes! Imagine tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and bubbly cheese. It’s an easy recipe everyone will be begging for.

I love that this dish is so adaptable. You can easily swap out vegetables or add different spices to customize it to your liking. Leftovers are fantastic too making this skillet beef casserole the perfect meal prep option.

Ingredients Needed for This skillet beef casserole Recipe

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup milk or beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

How to Make This skillet beef casserole Recipe

1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

1. 2. Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

1. 3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

1. 4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, letting the flavors meld together. If desired, stir in frozen mixed vegetables during the last few minutes of simmering.

1. 5. While the sauce is simmering, gently mix ¼ cup of milk (or beef broth) into your prepared mashed potatoes so they are a smoother consistency and easier to spread.

1. 6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the beef mixture.

1. 7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.

1. 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

How to Serve This skillet beef casserole Recipe

This skillet beef casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can always add a simple side salad for extra freshness. I love to garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter consider pairing with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette.

How to Store This skillet beef casserole Recipe

Let the skillet beef casserole cool completely before storing. To refrigerate, cover the skillet tightly with foil or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Label and date, it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheat refrigerated casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make This skillet beef casserole Recipe

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• Customize the vegetables to your liking. Try adding chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• If you don’t have mashed potatoes on hand, you can use instant mashed potatoes. Prepare them according to the package directions.
• To prevent the mashed potatoes from drying out in the oven, brush them with a little melted butter or olive oil before baking.
• For an extra cheesy casserole, add a layer of shredded cheese underneath the mashed potatoes. Try Grilled Beef Casserole for other cheesy dinner ideas.

Helpful Notes for This skillet beef casserole Recipe

If you do not have an oven safe skillet, transfer the beef mixture to a baking dish before topping with mashed potatoes and cheese. You can use any type of shredded cheese you like, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses. Follow us on Pinterest for more recipes and ideas! Remember to try this recipe alongside Skillet Beef Tacos, they’re just as easy and delicious. The canned crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce give the casserole its base. If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can substitute those in. The taste will be even better! Just make sure to cook them down before adding them to the skillet.

Variation of This skillet beef casserole Recipe

• Spicy Skillet Beef Casserole: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

• Mushroom Skillet Beef Casserole: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the skillet when you cook the onion and garlic.

• Mexican Skillet Beef Casserole: Season the beef mixture with taco seasoning instead of oregano and basil. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and serve with sour cream and salsa. For an even lighter option, check out this Grilled Beef Casserole 2!

FAQs About This skillet beef casserole Recipe Q: Can I make this skillet beef casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for the topping? A: Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a lovely sweetness and extra nutrients. Q: Can I add breadcrumbs to the top of the casserole for extra crunch? A: Yes, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking for a delicious crunchy topping.

Conclusion

This skillet beef casserole will quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect marriage of convenience and comfort, making it ideal for weeknights or cozy weekends. The versatile ingredients and simple preparation make it a winner every time. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious skillet beef casserole as much as I do!

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