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There’s something timeless about a hearty ground beef casserole. It’s warm, filling, and packed with bold, savory flavor — the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table without needing anything fancy. With seasoned beef, tender pasta, sweet corn, and plenty of melted cheese, this one is pure comfort in a baking dish.

What makes this version extra special is the seasoning. Whether you use Montreal Steak seasoning or mix up the homemade Magic Dust blend, the layers of spices give this casserole a rich, slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty, comforting, and family-friendly
Great for busy weeknights
Bold, flavorful seasoning blend
Easy to customize with what you have
Perfect for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup diced onion
½ cup diced orange bell pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon Montreal Steak seasoning or Magic Dust seasoning
16 ounces tomato sauce
1 (10-ounce) can Red Gold Diced Tomatoes & Green Chiles
1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 cups frozen corn
2 ounces shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend
1 ½ cups dried macaroni-style pasta, cooked al dente
1 cup shredded Mexican 4 Cheese blend
Sliced green onions, for garnish

Optional – Magic Dust Seasoning (if not using steak seasoning):

½ cup paprika
¼ cup kosher salt, finely ground
¼ cup sugar
2 tablespoons mustard powder
¼ cup chili powder
¼ cup ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
¼ cup granulated dried garlic
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper

Let’s Get Started

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Slightly undercooking the pasta helps prevent it from becoming too soft in the oven.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the diced onion and orange bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the red pepper flakes and seasoning of choice.
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir in the oregano and chili powder. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Add the frozen corn and stir until evenly combined. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Stir in 2 ounces of shredded cheese until melted into the beef mixture. This creates a slightly creamy texture throughout the casserole.
Fold in the cooked macaroni and mix until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling around the edges.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Servings and Pairing

This casserole serves about 6 people. Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or simple garlic bread for a complete meal.

Variations

Swap ground turkey for a lighter option.
Add black beans for extra protein and texture.
Stir in diced zucchini or spinach for added vegetables.
Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist.
Make it extra cheesy by adding an additional ½ cup on top.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

This casserole also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

What is Magic Dust seasoning?

It’s a bold homemade spice blend with paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and a touch of sweetness and heat. It adds depth and smoky flavor to the dish.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or shells work well. Just cook until al dente before mixing in.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake it. The sauce should look slightly saucy before baking, as the pasta will absorb some moisture in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Casserole is the kind of dependable dinner that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to adapt to your family’s tastes. With melty cheese and bold seasoning in every bite, this recipe is sure to earn a regular spot on your weekly menu.