Hearty Beef Ricotta Bake

This beef ricotta casserole is a perfect comfort food for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but fuss free. The combination of lean ground beef with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs creates layers of flavor that feel homey and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first made this casserole on a chilly Sunday afternoon and it quickly became a family favorite for leftovers the next day. The blend of cheeses with the seasoned beef always feels like a rewarding way to end a busy day.

Ingredients

• Extra lean ground beef: for a rich meaty base with less fat
• Sliced mushrooms: add earthiness and absorb the savory flavors well
• Red onion diced small: for a subtle sweetness that softens during cooking
• Garlic minced fresh: for pungency and warmth
• Tomato sauce: for tang and to bring everything together
• Balsamic vinegar: adds a hint of acidity and complexity that brightens the sauce
• Part skim ricotta cheese: gives creamy texture without too much richness choose a fresh tub for best taste and minimal wateriness
• Part skim mozzarella cheese shredded: melts beautifully for gooey topping
• Grated parmesan cheese: brings salty umami that elevates the cheesy topping
• Fresh oregano and rosemary chopped: add fragrant herbal notes that make this dish special

Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat until fully cooked and starting to brown. This caramelization deepens the flavor. Add sliced mushrooms diced red onion and minced garlic then cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften but still retain texture

Create The Sauce:

Pour in the tomato sauce and a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 5 minutes to marry flavors and thicken the sauce slightly

Assemble The Casserole:

Transfer the meat and mushroom mixture into a 2 quart oven safe casserole dish spreading evenly. In a bowl combine the ricotta mozzarella parmesan along with the fresh chopped oregano and rosemary mix until evenly blended. Dollop the cheese mixture over the meat layer and gently spread for coverage

Bake To Perfection:

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until cheese topping is hot bubbly and slightly golden around the edges. This melts all the cheeses and allows the herbs to infuse their aroma throughout the dish

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the fresh oregano which brings a bright zing that cuts through the richness. Making it reminds me of long weekends cooking with my parents when we combined pantry staples into something comforting and warm. The smell of melting cheese always signals good times ahead.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. This casserole also freezes well if wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn

Ingredient Swaps

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. Feel free to swap mushrooms for diced zucchini or bell peppers to add color and nutrition. Fresh thyme or basil can replace oregano and rosemary for a different herbal profile

Serving Ideas

Serve with a simple green salad for freshness or alongside crusty bread to soak up the cheesy juices. A drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice spicy kick if you like some heat

This casserole freezes beautifully. Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed allowing a few extra minutes for the center to heat through

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of beef is best for this dish?

Extra lean ground beef works best to keep the dish hearty yet balanced, offering protein without excess fat.

→ Can I add vegetables to increase nutrition?

Yes, adding layers of zucchini or spinach can boost vitamins and texture while complementing the flavors.

→ How do the herbs affect the flavor?

Fresh oregano and rosemary bring a fragrant, earthy tone that brightens the rich meat and cheese layers.

→ What cheese mix is used here?

A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a creamy, gooey layer with a savory finish.

→ Is it necessary to brown the meat before baking?

Yes, browning enhances flavor through caramelization and ensures the beef is fully cooked before baking.