Ground Beef Eggs Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ground Beef Eggs Casserole: the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to whip up! Imagine waking up to the savory aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with fluffy, baked eggs and melted cheese. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that will fuel your entire morning. I’ve been making this casserole for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether I’m serving it at a brunch gathering or simply looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

While the exact origins of a Ground Beef Eggs Casserole are a bit hazy, similar baked egg dishes have been a staple in households for generations. Think of it as a modern twist on classic breakfast strata or savory bread puddings. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and spices to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste.

But why do people love it so much? Well, for starters, it’s incredibly delicious! The combination of savory ground beef, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient. You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning, or even freeze it for a quick and easy meal later on. The texture is also fantastic – the slightly crispy edges of the ground beef contrast perfectly with the soft, custardy eggs. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular part of your meal rotation!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (16 ounce) package frozen tater tots, thawed

Preparing the Ground Beef Mixture

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of our casserole – the savory ground beef mixture. This is where we build the flavor foundation, so pay attention to the details!

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly translucent. This step is crucial for adding depth of flavor to the casserole.
3. Combine the Soups: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese (we’ll save the other half for topping!), milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture will act as our creamy binder, holding everything together.
4. Incorporate the Beef and Vegetables: Add the browned ground beef and sautéed vegetables to the soup mixture in the bowl. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base. This is where all the delicious flavors start to meld together.

Preparing the Egg Mixture

Now, let’s move on to the egg mixture. This will give our casserole a wonderful, fluffy texture and add richness to the overall dish.

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Whisk them vigorously until they are light and frothy. This will incorporate air into the eggs, resulting in a lighter and more tender casserole.
2. Season the Eggs: Add a pinch of salt and pepper to the whisked eggs. This will enhance the flavor of the eggs and complement the other ingredients in the casserole.
3. Combine with Beef Mixture: Gently fold the whisked eggs into the ground beef and soup mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the eggs and result in a tougher casserole. We want to maintain that light and airy texture.

Assembling the Casserole

Alright, we’re almost there! Now comes the fun part – assembling our casserole. This is where all our hard work comes together to create a beautiful and delicious dish.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make it easier to serve.
2. Pour in the Mixture: Pour the ground beef and egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Make sure the mixture is distributed uniformly so that every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Arrange the Tater Tots: Arrange the thawed tater tots in a single layer on top of the ground beef mixture. You can arrange them in neat rows or create a more random pattern – it’s up to you! The tater tots will form a crispy and golden-brown crust on top of the casserole.
4. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping that complements the savory flavors of the casserole.

Baking the Casserole

Now it’s time to bake our casserole to golden-brown perfection! This is where the magic happens, and all the flavors meld together to create a truly unforgettable dish.

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set slightly and make it easier to slice and serve.

Serving and Garnishing

Finally, it’s time to serve and enjoy our delicious ground beef and egg casserole! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family.

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the casserole.
2. Serve: Serve the casserole warm. You can serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side salad or steamed vegetables.
3. Enjoy!: Dig in and enjoy the delicious flavors of this hearty and satisfying ground beef and egg casserole! I hope you love it as much as I do.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a little extra heat.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the ground beef mixture, such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby jack.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: 25-35 grams per serving
• Fat: 20-30 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams per serving

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Eggs Casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a flavor-packed, protein-rich powerhouse that’s incredibly easy to whip up. From its savory ground beef base to the perfectly baked eggs and customizable toppings, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe because it’s so versatile and satisfying, perfect for a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch, or even a comforting dinner. It’s the kind of meal that sticks to your ribs and leaves you feeling energized and ready to tackle the day.

But the best part? You can totally make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses – sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of feta would be delicious. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.

Serving suggestions are endless! I personally love serving this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You could also top it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. And if you’re looking for a low-carb option, simply omit the bread or potatoes that some other casserole recipes call for – this recipe is delicious and filling enough on its own.

For a brunch gathering, consider making individual ramekins of the casserole for a more elegant presentation. Or, if you’re feeding a crowd, double or triple the recipe and bake it in a large baking dish. The possibilities are truly limitless!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover ground beef and eggs, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Ground Beef Eggs Casserole is a game-changer, and I can’t wait for you to experience the deliciousness for yourself.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What variations did you make? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m always eager to see your creations and hear your feedback. Let’s build a community of casserole lovers together! Happy cooking! I’m sure you’ll find this recipe as comforting and easy as I do. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your liking and really make it your own signature dish. I am excited to see what you come up with!