Name: Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef: 1-Dish Easy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef has been my go-to comfort food for years, especially when I need a satisfying dinner that feels both special and incredibly easy. I remember the first time I made this Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef bake; the aroma of savory beef, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for a comforting bite. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings or whenever you crave a truly delicious and cheesy Italian beef experience. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

This isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly simple!

Unbeatable Comfort: It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
Incredibly Easy: With minimal prep, you can have a delicious homemade meal without the stress.
Flavor Packed: The savory beef, tangy tomato sauce, and rich Parmesan cheese create a symphony of tastes.
Family Favorite: This hearty Parmesan Italian beef casserole is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again.
Versatile Serving: It pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Make-Ahead Magic: This hearty Parmesan Italian beef bake is perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeks.
Cheesy Goodness: Melty mozzarella on top makes every bite pure bliss.

Ingredients for Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious hearty Parmesan Italian beef recipe. The combination of ground beef, rich Parmesan, and tangy tomato sauce makes this bake incredibly satisfying.

1 pound ground beef – a lean blend works well for this bake
1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs – these add structure and absorb juices
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that essential savory, nutty flavor
1/4 cup milk – helps bind the beef mixture and keeps it tender
1 egg – acts as a binder for the beef mixture
1 onion, chopped – about 1 cup, adds aromatic depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian flavor
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce – forms the base of our savory sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – provides texture and extra tomato flavor
1 teaspoon dried oregano – a classic herb for Italian dishes
1 teaspoon dried basil – another staple herb that complements the other flavors
Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the delicious ingredients
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melty topping

How to Make Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef Bake

Whipping up this delicious Parmesan Italian beef bake casserole is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. The aroma alone will have your family gathering in the kitchen, eager for a taste of this comforting Italian beef dish. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, milk, and the egg. Mix everything together gently with your hands until just combined. You want it mixed, but not overworked.

Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef: 1-Dish Easy Delight - Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef - additional detail

Step 2: Assemble the Bake

Press this savory beef mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir this flavorful sauce mixture well.

Step 3: Combine and Top

Pour that wonderful tomato and onion mixture evenly over the beef layer in the baking dish. Make sure it covers as much of the beef as possible for maximum flavor distribution. Finally, sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese all over the top, creating a beautiful cheesy blanket.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Place the assembled bake into your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the beef is completely cooked through and the mozzarella cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. Let this hearty Parmesan Italian beef rest for about 5 minutes before serving. It’s worth the wait!

Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

Elevate your hearty Parmesan Italian beef casserole with these simple tricks for a truly exceptional meal. These tips will ensure your bake is flavorful, tender, and perfectly satisfying every time you make it.

Don’t overmix the beef mixture; it can lead to a tougher texture in your hearty Parmesan Italian beef.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce mixture.
Allow the bake to rest for at least 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven before slicing and serving.

What’s the secret to a perfectly hearty parmesan Italian beef?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and not overworking the beef. Using good quality Parmesan cheese and letting the flavors meld together in the sauce are key to that rich, savory profile that makes this dish so satisfying. For more on achieving perfect flavor balance in cooking, you can explore resources on flavor building blocks.

Can I make Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire hearty Parmesan Italian beef bake up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef casserole?

A common mistake is overmixing the beef, which makes it dense. Another pitfall is not letting the bake rest before serving, which can cause it to fall apart. Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking. For tips on oven calibration, check out guides on oven calibration.

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

This incredibly satisfying hearty Parmesan Italian beef is a versatile dish that shines with the right accompaniments. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even for entertaining guests. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this delicious bake:

Over Pasta: Spoon this savory bake over a bed of your favorite pasta, like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne. The rich sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a classic Italian-American comfort food experience.
With Mashed Potatoes: The tender beef and sauce are absolutely divine served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up all the delicious juices, making for an incredibly hearty meal.
With Crusty Bread: This is a must if you love to sop up every last bit of sauce! A warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the cheesy, tomato-y goodness.

Nutrition Facts for Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

When you’re craving a truly satisfying meal, this hearty Parmesan Italian beef delivers on flavor and comfort. Each serving is packed with deliciousness, offering a good balance of protein and satisfying carbohydrates. It’s a fantastic choice for a hearty dinner that everyone will enjoy.

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 900mg
Cholesterol: 90mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

This delicious hearty Parmesan Italian beef bake is fantastic for leftovers, making meal prep a breeze. Once it’s cooled down slightly, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh and flavorful for your next meal. I always make a little extra just for lunches the next day!

Cool Completely: Let the bake cool to room temperature before packing it away.
Airtight Containers: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers. This is key for keeping your hearty Parmesan Italian beef casserole from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It holds up beautifully!
Freezer Friendly: If you won’t get to it within a few days, freeze it! Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or use freezer-safe containers. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Methods: For the best results, reheat individual portions. You can gently warm it in the microwave for a quick meal, or for a crispier top, pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This easy hearty Italian beef parmesan reheats wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef

What is hearty parmesan Italian beef?

Hearty Parmesan Italian beef is a comforting baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef mixed with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, topped with a savory tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a classic Italian-American casserole known for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, making it a perfect dinner.

How to make hearty parmesan Italian beef?

To make this delicious dish, you’ll combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, and egg, then press it into a baking dish. A flavorful tomato sauce mixture is poured over the top, followed by mozzarella cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly. It’s a simple yet incredibly rewarding process.

Why is parmesan Italian beef hearty?

The heartiness of this Parmesan Italian beef recipe comes from several factors. The ground beef provides a substantial base, while the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese add richness and binding. The tomato sauce and mozzarella create a comforting, savory layer, making it a truly filling and satisfying meal.

Variations of Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef You Can Try

This versatile hearty Parmesan Italian beef casserole is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Whether you’re looking to adapt it for dietary needs or simply switch up the flavors, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started on your next Parmesan Italian beef bake casserole adventure:

Gluten-Free Version: Easily make this a gluten-free delight by swapping out the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. It’s a simple change that makes this savory Italian beef parmesan accessible for more people.
Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce mixture. This adds a wonderful warmth to the overall flavor profile of your hearty Italian beef and parmesan.
Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carbohydrate meal, skip the breadcrumbs and egg in the beef mixture. Instead, you can use riced cauliflower or almond flour as a binder. This transforms it into a lighter, yet still incredibly satisfying, cheesy Italian beef bake.
Slow Cooker Method: Craving the ease of a slow cooker? Brown the beef mixture first, then layer everything in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender and the cheese is melted. This makes for an incredibly tender Hearty Parmesan Italian Beef slow cooker meal.