Angel Beef Casserole Recipe with Savory Herbs and Creamy Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Angel Beef Casserole

This Angel Beef Casserole is a go-to meal that’s as comforting as it gets, blending tender angel hair pasta with flavorful ground beef for a satisfying dinner. It’s packed with creamy and cheesy layers that make every bite feel like a warm hug, perfect for family nights or quick weeknight fixes. Its simplicity means you can whip it up without much fuss, making it ideal for home cooks of all levels.

One reason you’ll adore this dish is its ease of preparation. This Angel Beef Casserole recipe is designed for simplicity and quick cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Its straightforward steps require minimal ingredients and cooking skills, enabling you to enjoy a hearty meal with less effort. Plus, with a total prep and cook time of just about 40 minutes, it’s a lifesaver when you’re short on time.

The health benefits are another big plus. Packed with lean beef and nutrient-rich elements, this casserole offers a balanced meal loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals. The recipe supports wellness by being mindful of fat content and incorporating wholesome ingredients that promote satiety and energy, including about 20 grams of protein per serving.

Versatility is key here, too. Adapt the Angel Beef Casserole easily to suit different dietary preferences, including gluten-free, low-calorie, or plant-based diets by substituting key ingredients. This flexibility makes it a go-to dish for diverse family needs or meal planning, so whether you’re a busy parent or a student, it fits right in.

What really sets this Angel Beef Casserole apart is its distinctive flavor. The unique blend of herbs, spices, and slow-cooked beef yields a rich, comforting taste that develops beautifully during baking. With layers of savory herbs and creamy sauce, it’s a memorable dining experience that brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Jump To

• 1. Why You’ll Love This Angel Beef Casserole
• 2. Essential Ingredients for Angel Beef Casserole
• 3. How to Prepare the Perfect Angel Beef Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide
• 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Angel Beef Casserole
• 5. Mastering Angel Beef Casserole: Advanced Tips and Variations
• 6. How to Store Angel Beef Casserole: Best Practices
• 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Angel Beef Casserole
• 8. Angel Beef Casserole

Essential Ingredients for Angel Beef Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Angel Beef Casserole. This hearty dish relies on simple, everyday items that combine to form creamy and cheesy layers with angel hair pasta and ground beef. Below is a comprehensive list of all the ingredients needed, extracted directly from the recipe details for accuracy.

• 12 oz angel hair pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (lean or 80/20)
• 1 small finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup softened cream cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a balanced, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. For special dietary options like vegan or gluten-free, consider simple swaps such as using plant-based ground beef or ensuring all components are certified gluten-free.

Explore another easy casserole option like Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole for more inspiration when shopping for your ingredients.

How to Prepare the Perfect Angel Beef Casserole: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting started with Angel Beef Casserole is straightforward and fun, beginning with preheating your oven and gathering your ingredients. This recipe comes together in about 40 minutes, making it a great choice for busy evenings. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavors.

First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This sets the stage for even baking and prevents sticking. Next, boil the 12 oz angel hair pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain it to keep the texture just right.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 lb ground beef and 1 small finely chopped onion until browned, then drain excess fat. This step builds the base flavor. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce, then simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup sour cream and 1/4 cup softened cream cheese until smooth. This creamy mixture adds the indulgent layer that makes the casserole special. For tips like cooking pasta slightly under al dente, remember it prevents mushiness and ensures a perfect bake.

Assemble the casserole by spreading half the pasta in the baking dish, topping it with the creamy mixture, then layering the remaining pasta. Pour the beef and tomato sauce mixture evenly over the layers and sprinkle with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Once done, garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm. Layering evenly ensures balanced flavor, and you can always swap mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a twist. For more ideas, check out Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta for a similar pasta dish that pairs well with these techniques.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Angel Beef Casserole

Angel Beef Casserole is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tweak it for various dietary needs while keeping its creamy and cheesy appeal. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter version or accommodating allergies, these swaps maintain the dish’s hearty essence. Let’s dive into some easy modifications.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives: Substitute the 1 lb ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles to accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets. Use lentils or mushrooms as protein-rich alternatives for a low-calorie or meat-free casserole.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications: Swap the onion for other veggies if needed, or replace tomato sauce with a different base for variety. Adjust herbs by using rosemary or basil instead of smoked paprika to tailor the taste. For gluten-free needs, ensure all seasoning blends and broths are certified gluten-free.

These substitutions help make Angel Beef Casserole accessible for everyone, from busy parents to seniors. Adding sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition is another great tip to enhance the dish without changing its core.

Mastering Angel Beef Casserole: Advanced Tips and Variations

Taking your Angel Beef Casserole to the next level involves some pro techniques and creative twists that enhance its savory herbs and creamy sauce. With a bit of experimentation, this dish can become a staple in your recipe rotation. Let’s explore ways to refine it.

Pro cooking techniques include browning the beef in batches for better caramelization and richer flavor. Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth to capture all the tasty bits, ensuring every layer is packed with taste.

Flavor variations offer endless fun; experiment by adding smoked paprika or other spices for a smoky twist. Incorporate extras like mushrooms or bell peppers to add complexity and nutrition, aligning with tips for boosting the dish’s health benefits.

Presentation tips can make your meal more appealing, such as serving in individual ramekins and garnishing with fresh herbs. Make-ahead options are handy too; prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate for easy baking later.

These expert suggestions refine the traditional Angel Beef Casserole experience, adding depth and convenience. Remember, layering evenly for balanced flavor is key, just like in the original recipe’s assembly steps.

Nutritional Breakdown Table

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of Casserole)
Calories	380
Sugar	5 grams
Sodium	550 milligrams
Fat	18 grams (9 grams saturated, 6 grams unsaturated)
Trans Fat	0 grams
Carbohydrates	35 grams
Fiber	2 grams
Protein	20 grams
Cholesterol	55 milligrams

How to Store Angel Beef Casserole: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Angel Beef Casserole tasting fresh and delicious for days. After enjoying this creamy dish, follow these steps to preserve its savory herbs and layers. It’s simple and helps reduce waste.

Refrigeration: Store leftover Angel Beef Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and safety. This works well for busy professionals who need quick meals.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Label with date, and consume within 2 months for optimal quality, just like the tips suggest for the unbaked version.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave on medium power until heated through. Meal prep considerations include preparing batches in advance for streamlined planning.

Following these guidelines helps retain the casserole’s flavor and texture, making meal prep efficient. For more storage ideas, check reliable sources like external guides on food preservation.

Visit AllRecipes for more storage tips.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Angel Beef Casserole

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