If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in a snap, the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender ground beef, creamy soups, and the delicate texture of angel hair pasta, all topped with melted, golden cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate—simple enough for a weeknight dinner but satisfying enough to become a family favorite. The blend of flavors and textures makes this recipe a true star in any home cook’s repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make this dish irresistible. From the tender pasta to the savory beef and the creamy soup base, every component works in harmony.
- Angel hair pasta: This delicate pasta cooks quickly and provides a light base that lets the rich sauce shine through.
- Ground beef: The hearty protein that brings savory depth and satisfying texture to every bite.
- Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and fragrance that complements the beef perfectly.
- Tomato soup (1 can): Brings a tangy richness that brightens the dish and adds moisture.
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can): Adds creamy earthiness and smooth texture that hold the casserole together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): The golden, gooey topping that makes this casserole irresistibly comforting.
How to Make Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready to bake your casserole to bubbling, cheesy perfection.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil your angel hair pasta according to the package instructions, which only takes a few minutes due to its delicate nature. Once cooked, drain it well and set it aside to keep from becoming mushy later on.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef loses all its pink color. The onions soften and sweeten as the beef browns, creating a fantastic foundation of flavor. Don’t forget to drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Mix in the Soups and Seasonings
To your browned beef and onions, add the tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup. Stir these in thoroughly along with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy, flavorful mixture will bind the other ingredients together beautifully.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Gently fold the cooked angel hair pasta into the beef and soup mixture, making sure every strand is coated with that luscious sauce. This step brings the components into one delicious, cohesive dish.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top—this will melt into a rich, golden crust that’s simply mouthwatering.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned, signaling that crispy, cheesy layer that makes every bite special.
How to Serve Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives are wonderful garnishes that add a pop of color and a hint of brightness to the rich casserole. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes also works if you want to introduce a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are perfect companions that add freshness and a healthy crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins to give a personal touch and appealing presentation. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of barbecue sauce on top just before serving to complement the flavors in a unique way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Angel Beef Casserole Recipe has cooled completely, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great option for next-day meals.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a comforting meal quickly, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes if thawed, or a bit longer if cooking from frozen. A quick zap in the microwave also works well for single portions.
FAQs
Can I substitute another type of pasta for angel hair?
Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is delicate and perfect for this recipe, you can use other small pasta shapes like penne or elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken will work fine. Keep in mind these leaner meats might be less flavorful, so you may want to add an extra seasoning boost such as garlic powder or herbs.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable soup instead of tomato soup to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute cream of celery or cream of chicken soup if you’d like a slightly different flavor profile, though cream of mushroom is classic and adds nice earthiness.
Can I prepare this dish entirely ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or dinner parties.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Angel Beef Casserole Recipe—it brings together simple ingredients into a dish that feels like coming home. I hope you give it a try and discover your own memories and smiles around the table with this delicious, cozy casserole. Trust me, once you make it, it’ll become an anytime favorite you’ll want to share over and over.
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Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender angel hair pasta combined with savory ground beef, onions, and creamy soups, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family meal, this easy casserole bakes to bubbly, golden perfection in just under an hour.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound angel hair pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.75 oz) tomato soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook pasta: Boil the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook beef and onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Combine soups and season: Stir the tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup into the cooked beef and onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Mix pasta and meat mixture: Add the drained angel hair pasta to the skillet with the beef and soup mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Assemble casserole: Grease a casserole dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour the pasta and meat mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meat mixture can enhance the flavors.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting cold.
- Use low-fat cheeses and soups to reduce calories and fat content if desired.
