This Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Bake is a wholesome, comforting dish packed with seasoned ground beef, tender vegetables, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s baked in one dish, making it a convenient and satisfying option for a family-friendly weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-dish meal—easy prep and cleanup
- Loaded with vegetables, making it hearty and nutritious
- Perfect for busy weeknights with simple ingredients
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins
- Classic comfort food that’s kid- and adult-approved
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
- Rich in protein and fiber from beef and vegetables
- Cheesy, savory finish thanks to melted cheddar on top
- Balanced blend of herbs adds depth of flavor
- Great way to use up leftover vegetables
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups diced potatoes
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until onion is translucent.
- Add diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to start softening the vegetables.
- Stir in corn, browned beef, diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
- Add chopped spinach or zucchini for more vegetables
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor
- Add spice with red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño
- Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for a twist
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before adding cheese for a crunchy topping
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave in portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked dish (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, bake as directed, and add cheese during the final bake time.
FAQs
Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, just reduce the cooking time on the stove slightly since canned vegetables are already soft.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Freeze before baking, or freeze baked leftovers and reheat later.
What’s the best type of ground meat to use?
Lean ground beef is ideal, but turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the beef and add cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute for protein.
What should I serve with this bake?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Can I add pasta or rice to this recipe?
For a heartier version, cooked rice or small pasta like elbow macaroni can be stirred in before baking.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The vegetables should be tender and the cheese fully melted and bubbling.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What herbs can I use if I don’t have thyme or rosemary?
Oregano, Italian seasoning, or parsley are great alternatives.
Is this a good meal prep option?
Definitely. It reheats well and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Vegetable Bake is a hearty, satisfying dish loaded with vegetables, protein, and flavor. It’s a practical one-pan solution for feeding a family or prepping meals in advance. With its cheesy topping and savory seasoning, it’s sure to become a go-to comfort dish in your kitchen.
Print
Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Bake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Vegetable Bake is a cozy, all-in-one casserole packed with seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it’s easy to prep and customize with your favorite veggies—comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups diced potatoes
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2 cups diced carrots
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1 cup diced celery
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 cup beef broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
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In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
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Add diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in corn, cooked beef, diced tomatoes with juice, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
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Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
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Remove foil, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let rest a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
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Swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
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Add extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
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For a spicier version, toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
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Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a cheesy twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole, Main Dish
- Method: Baked, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
