This hearty homemade casserole features ground beef, tender vegetables, and melty cheddar cheese for a comforting, all-in-one dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 15-oz can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried thyme or paprika (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes until slightly tender.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme or paprika if using. Simmer 5–10 minutes.
Remove from heat. Stir in peas and corn.
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
For vegetarian version, substitute beef with lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Parboil potatoes for quicker baking.
Freeze after baking for up to 3 months.
Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for variation.