Introducing the delectable Ground Beef and Garbanzo Bean Casserole, a delightful creation that originated from the beloved Better Homes and Gardens Meat Stretcher cookbook. This dish is a savory delight, reminiscent of the comforting flavors of hamburger helper, but with a clever twist suitable for those avoiding pasta. It has become a cherished favorite in many households, including that of the user, particularly adored by her husband.
This casserole is a testament to culinary ingenuity, providing a hearty and satisfying meal for all, especially those who seek lactose-free and low-cholesterol options. With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a total cooking time of 55 minutes, this recipe falls perfectly within the category of quick and easy meals, ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something wholesome and delicious.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While it calls for garbanzo beans as the primary legume, the user has shared a valuable tip of substituting a can of white kernel corn if desired, adding a subtle sweetness and texture to the dish. However, the recommendation stands to first experience the dish with garbanzo beans for an authentic taste experience.
Let’s delve into the heart of this recipe, starting with the ingredients. Gather 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 2 cans of garbanzo beans (or 1 can of garbanzo beans and 1 can of white kernel corn, if preferred), 1 can of tomato sauce, 1/2 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 2 bay leaves.
Now, let’s embark on the culinary journey. Preheat your oven to a toasty 350°F (175°C), preparing it to embrace the delicious aromas that will soon fill your kitchen. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef together with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion turns tender and translucent, and the beef takes on a rich, golden hue. Once achieved, drain any excess fat from the skillet, ensuring a lean and wholesome dish.
Now, it’s time to infuse the magic into this casserole. Stir in the garbanzo beans (or the alternative of choice), along with the tomato sauce, water, dried oregano, salt, ground cumin, pepper, and the fragrant bay leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer and meld together, as the flavors intertwine, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your senses.
With the ingredients harmoniously combined, transfer the flavorful concoction into a generously sized 1 1/2 quart casserole dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed for optimal cooking. Cover the casserole dish, encapsulating the flavors within, and place it lovingly into the preheated oven.
Now, it’s time for the magic to happen. Allow the casserole to bake in the warmth of the oven for approximately 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and intensify with each passing minute. As the aroma permeates your kitchen, anticipation builds for the culinary delight that awaits.
Once the timer announces the completion of the baking process, carefully remove the casserole from the oven, taking in its golden-brown hue and irresistible scent. Remember to remove the bay leaves, ensuring that every bite is a pure delight without any unwanted surprises.
Before serving, give the casserole a gentle stir, ensuring that all the flavors are evenly distributed, ready to delight your taste buds with each mouthful. And there you have it, the Ground Beef and Garbanzo Bean Casserole, a true testament to the art of home cooking and the joy it brings to those who gather around the table.
Whether enjoyed as a cozy weeknight dinner or shared with loved ones during a special gathering, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, cherished for its simplicity, versatility, and above all, its irresistible flavor. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the culinary adventure begin! 🍽️🥘
