If you are craving a meal that wraps comfort, flavor, and a touch of creamy indulgence into one satisfying dish, then let me introduce you to the Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe. This casserole combines tender angel hair pasta with savory ground beef simmered in rich tomato sauce, layered with luscious cream cheese, sour cream, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends with minimal fuss but maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun for the Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe. Each one plays an essential role in creating layers of taste, texture, and color that make this dish truly shine. From the delicate strands of angel hair pasta to the creamy blend of cheeses, everything works in harmony.
- 8 oz angel hair pasta: Its thin, delicate strands cook quickly and soak up the creamy flavors perfectly.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory richness to the casserole base.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth and enhances overall flavor.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, comforting tomato layer.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (drained): Introduces texture and fresh acidity to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the savory profile with classic Italian notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat in their casserole.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened): Brings creamy richness and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness to the pasta layer.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that perfect gooey top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty finish to the cheesy crust.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant touch of color and flavor.
How to Make Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook Pasta
Start by cooking the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for al dente – tender but still with a slight bite. Drain the pasta carefully and set it aside; this ensures it doesn’t become mushy once baked. The angel hair is the perfect delicate base that will soak up all the creamy goodness.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is nicely browned and the onion softens. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute to release that mouthwatering aroma that hints at the flavors to come.
Step 3: Create the Tomato Sauce
Now it’s time to stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and if you’re up for it, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld into a rich, comforting sauce—the heart of our Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe.
Step 4: Mix the Creamy Pasta Layer
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Then fold this luscious blend into the cooked pasta until each strand is beautifully coated. This creamy layer contrasts wonderfully with the tomatoey beef, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Begin by spreading the creamy pasta mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, spoon on the savory beef and tomato sauce mixture in an even layer. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top. Bake in your preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to set.
How to Serve Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top just before serving brings a lovely burst of color and adds a hint of herbaceous freshness to the rich casserole. It’s a simple addition that elevates presentation and flavor in one easy step.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad tossed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans make excellent accompaniments and add vital nutrients to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-friendly twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. It’s also fun to top each portion with a dollop of sour cream or a grating of extra Parmesan for a personalized touch. Whether served family-style or plated elegantly, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe tastes even better the next day. Simply cover leftovers tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors have time to meld, making for an effortless reheat and second helping.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish securely with foil and plastic wrap, then place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. This makes it an ideal make-ahead meal option.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, usually about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave smaller portions until hot, though oven reheating keeps the texture more enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair is traditional for this recipe’s lovely delicate texture, feel free to swap in other thin pasta types like capellini or even small shells for a fun twist.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or a hearty mix of mushrooms and lentils. Just adjust the seasoning to maintain that rich, savory flavor.
Can the cream cheese be replaced with something else?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, ricotta or mascarpone can be used for a similar creamy effect, though the flavor will shift slightly—still delicious!
How spicy is the casserole with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that you can adjust or omit depending on your preference. They provide a subtle background warmth rather than overwhelming spiciness.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
Cooking the pasta al dente and draining it well before mixing helps avoid sogginess. Also, layering the casserole correctly and not letting it overbake are key to keeping the perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is a standout weeknight dinner with its irresistible layers and comforting flavors. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and sure to become a favorite craving for your loved ones. Go ahead and give it a try—once you do, I bet you’ll find yourself reaching for this casserole recipe time and again to share warmth and joy at your table.
Print
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring tender angel hair pasta, savory ground beef simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, and a creamy blend of cream cheese and sour cream. Topped with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Dairy
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare Creamy Pasta Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add the cooked pasta to this mixture and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the creamy pasta mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the beef and tomato sauce mixture on top of the pasta. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the beef layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to taste for spiciness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set for easier serving.
