Savory Creamy Mushroom and Ground Beef Bake with Cheese

Short description

This hearty and indulgent bake combines savory ground beef, tender mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce layered with pasta and cheddar cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, it’s a comforting family-friendly dish perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in one satisfying dish

• Creamy, cheesy, and seasoned with aromatic spices

• Perfect for batch cooking or feeding a crowd

• Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead meals

• A delicious way to use pantry staples like cream of mushroom soup and dried herbs

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

4. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release moisture and soften.

5. Mix in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture, stirring until evenly coated.

7. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add vegetables: Mix in frozen peas, bell peppers, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.

• Use other proteins: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.

• Swap pasta: Use egg noodles or even rice as a base.

• Cheese options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through.

• This bake also freezes well. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, white button, or even portobello mushrooms are all excellent options.

Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

Yes, you can make a homemade version with butter, flour, broth, and cream or use another condensed soup like cream of chicken.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain full-fat Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangy, protein-rich alternative.

What other cheese can I use?

Mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack can be used depending on your preference for flavor and melt.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, light sour cream, and reduce the amount of cheese and cream.

Can I use uncooked pasta?

No, pasta should be fully cooked before mixing into the sauce for best results.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can this be served as a one-dish meal?

Yes, it’s well-balanced with protein, carbs, and dairy. Add a side salad for extra vegetables if desired.

Conclusion

Savory Creamy Mushroom and Ground Beef Bake with Cheese is the epitome of comfort food—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. With its easy prep, flexible ingredients, and satisfying taste, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals, it delivers warmth and indulgence in every bite.

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