If you’re searching for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender angel hair pasta with savory ground beef, rich tomato, and mushroom soups, finished under a blanket of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole blends flavors and textures that are both satisfying and soul-warming. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this recipe delivers a hearty, flavorful meal everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this casserole plays a key role, bringing simple yet flavorful elements that balance perfectly. These essentials come together easily, making preparation straightforward while packing in taste, texture, and that inviting golden color.
- Angel hair pasta: Delicate and quick-cooking, it serves as the light base to soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Ground beef: Adds rich, savory depth and satisfying protein to the dish.
- Onion, chopped: Brings aromatic sweetness that perfectly complements the beef.
- Tomato soup: Provides a tangy and slightly sweet tomato flavor that enlivens the casserole.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and subtle earthiness, enriching the sauce beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and highlight the natural flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts to create a golden, bubbly crust that is irresistible.
How to Make Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain it well. This delicate pasta will gently absorb the vibrant sauce, so perfectly cooked noodles are key to achieving that satisfying bite.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef loses all its pinkness and the onions soften. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy while keeping that savory flavor intact.
Step 3: Develop the Sauce
To the browned beef and onions, stir in your tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This combination creates a luscious, creamy sauce with a rich, slightly tangy character that perfectly binds the ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Mix the cooked angel hair pasta thoroughly into the beef and soup mixture, making sure every strand is evenly coated. This blend ensures every bite bursts with flavor and creaminess.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Bake in your preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. This final step creates a beautiful, molten cheese crust everyone will adore.
How to Serve Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions over the baked casserole not only brightens the dish visually but also brings a fresh, herbal note that contrasts nicely with the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even buttery garlic bread, which can help soak up any extra sauce and round out the meal in the most satisfying way.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a twist of cracked black pepper and a small sprig of rosemary. The personal touches make each serving feel like a delightful treat, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 days and tastes just as comforting on the second day, making it ideal for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place the casserole in a freezer-safe dish or wrap portions tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven is best to restore that golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is ideal for its delicate texture, you can substitute with spaghetti, thin fettuccine, or even small pasta shapes if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or extra mushrooms, and use vegetable soup instead of tomato and mushroom soups. It still maintains rich flavor and comforting texture.
How can I make the cheese topping extra crispy?
Try adding a handful of breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter on top of the cheddar cheese before baking. This creates a deliciously crunchy topping that adds a nice contrast.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance before baking?
Definitely! Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be chilled.
What wine pairs well with the Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe?
A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or a fruity Zinfandel complements the rich beef and creamy sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe, you’ll see why it remains a beloved classic that’s both easy to make and deeply comforting. It’s perfect for bringing family and friends together over a meal that feels like pure home-cooked magic. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every bite of this truly delightful casserole experience!
Print
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Angel Beef Casserole combines tender angel hair pasta with savory ground beef and rich tomato and mushroom soups, topped with melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound angel hair pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (10.5 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 ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
- Mix Soups and Seasoning: Stir the tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef and onions, combining the flavors thoroughly.
- Combine Pasta and Meat Mixture: Add the cooked and drained angel hair pasta to the meat and soup mixture, stirring well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a casserole dish and pour in the pasta and meat mixture. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top to create a melty, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned golden brown.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef while cooking.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a splash of milk to the soup mixture before combining with pasta.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
