Description
Heavenly Angel Beef Casserole brings comfort and warmth to dinner tables with its rich, hearty layers of tender beef and creamy sauce. Hearty ingredients meld together, creating a satisfying meal that promises to delight you with each savory bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (1 lb or 454 grams) ground beef
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 ounces (12 oz or 340 grams) angel hair pasta
- 1 can (15 ounces or 425 grams) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Aromatics:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Warm the kitchen oven to 375°F and lightly coat a rectangular baking vessel with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare angel hair pasta in boiling water until perfectly tender, then carefully drain and reserve for layering.
- Heat a skillet and transform ground beef and chopped onions into a rich, caramelized mixture, thoroughly eliminating excess liquid. Enhance the protein with aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, seasoning, and vibrant tomato sauce, allowing flavors to meld together for several minutes.
- Create a velvety binding layer by whisking sour cream and cream cheese until achieving a smooth, luxurious consistency.
- Construct the casserole’s foundation by distributing half the cooked pasta across the baking dish’s surface. Generously spread the creamy mixture, then layer remaining pasta. Crown the dish with the seasoned beef mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Liberally blanket the entire casserole with shredded mozzarella, creating a golden, appetizing surface.
- Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 20-25 minutes until cheese melts into a bubbling, enticing topping.
- Extract the casserole, optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of brightness, and serve immediately while warm and inviting.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce overall fat content and ensure a healthier dish.
- Swap angel hair pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for dietary restrictions.
- Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature for smoother, lump-free blending with sour cream.
- For extra flavor depth, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the beef mixture before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg