This Angel Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish—layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender angel hair pasta baked to perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead dinners.
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why make this recipe
Delicious Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. It combines ground beef, creamy ingredients, and crispy tater tots, making it a favorite for families and gatherings. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, saving you time in the kitchen. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s sure to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
how to serve Delicious Angel Beef Casserole
Serve your Delicious Angel Beef Casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for added flavor.
how to store Delicious Angel Beef Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Angel Beef Casserole
- Use lean ground beef: This keeps the casserole from becoming too greasy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cream cheese tip: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing. You can also microwave it for 15–20 seconds.
- Layer smart: Make sure to evenly spread the cheese mixture to avoid dry patches.
- Add veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve—add an extra 10 minutes to bake time if cold.
- Double the batch: Great for freezing one and baking one fresh. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish and wrap well.
Variations You’ll Love
Want to give your Angel Beef Casserole a twist? Try one of these:
- Tex-Mex Style: Add 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and a can of black beans. Top with shredded cheddar instead of mozzarella.
- Italian-Inspired: Swap tomato sauce for marinara and add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil. Use Italian blend cheese on top.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace angel hair pasta with spiralized zucchini or cooked spaghetti squash.
- Vegetarian: Substitute beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth in the sauce.
Nutritional Breakdown (Estimated Per Serving)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.
Storage Tips
Here’s how to store and enjoy leftovers without losing flavor:
- To Refrigerate: Cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze unbaked or fully baked. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Label with date and instructions.
- To Reheat: For best results, bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. If microwaving, cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
Why This Dish is Perfect for Busy Families
This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver. It’s:
- Quick to prep
- Freezer-friendly
- Easily doubled
- Crowd-pleasing
- Customizable to fit dietary needs
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or a house full of guests, Delicious Angel Beef Casserole makes everyone happy—without making a mess in your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying casserole that’s quick to make, this Delicious Angel Beef Casserole will hit the spot. It combines the rich flavors of seasoned beef and tomato sauce with the irresistible creaminess of a cheese layer and tender angel hair pasta—all baked into one bubbly, golden masterpiece.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, Sunday dinner, or when you just need a comforting meal to bring everyone to the table. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days.
Give it a try and see why this dish is a family favorite in homes across the country!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you are ready to serve.
Q: Can I use fresh tater tots instead of frozen?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that fresh tater tots may require different cooking times. Monitor them closely while baking.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan (for pasta)
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned and fully cooked (about 7–8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Make the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika to the beef mixture. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Prepare the Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth. Set aside.
Layer the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Spread half of the cooked pasta on the bottom.
- Spoon and spread all of the sour cream and cream cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta on top.
- Pour the beef and tomato sauce evenly over the pasta.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli.
- Add a side of garlic bread or gluten-free rolls.
- For extra spice, top with red pepper flakes before baking.
