Name: Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (optional, for serving)

A rich and comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, tender mushrooms, and a creamy cheesy sauce baked to golden perfection—ideal for a cozy family dinner. This dish is simple to prepare but full of flavor, making it a go-to meal when I want something hearty and satisfying without too much fuss.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef

8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups cooked pasta or mashed potatoes (optional, for serving)

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Remove skillet from heat and stir in sour cream, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Transfer the beef and mushroom mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as is or over cooked pasta or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The prep time takes about 15 minutes, with 30 minutes needed for cooking, totaling 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a perfect midweek dinner option when I want something comforting but quick.

Variations

I sometimes switch up the mushrooms for cremini or shiitake for a deeper flavor. Adding a handful of spinach or some diced bell peppers can give a fresh twist and boost the nutrition. For a lower-carb option, I skip the pasta or mashed potatoes and serve it with steamed veggies or a crisp salad. You can also swap the cheddar for mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which usually takes about 15 minutes. It also reheats well in the microwave, but I like the oven method to keep the cheese topping nice and melty.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, I’ve used ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for sour cream?

Absolutely. Greek yogurt adds a similar creamy texture and a slight tang, plus it’s a bit healthier.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to eat, I bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with this bake?

I enjoy it over cooked pasta or creamy mashed potatoes, but it also pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

I replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, use dairy-free cheese substitutes, and swap milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake is one of those recipes I always keep in my rotation for its comforting flavors and easy prep. Whether I serve it over pasta or mashed potatoes, it’s a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. Give it a try the next time I want something cozy, cheesy, and delicious with minimal effort.

Creamy Mushroom & Ground Beef Bake

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating