A casserole made with ground beef must be cooked at least 155 F because?

A casserole made with ground beef must be cooked at least 155°F because that temperature is enough to kill harmful bacteria, like E. coli and Salmonella, that can be present in raw ground beef.

Here's why:

* Foodborne Illness: These bacteria are dangerous and can cause serious food poisoning if not properly eliminated.

* Safety Guideline: The USDA recommends cooking ground beef to an internal temperature of 155°F for at least 15 seconds to ensure safety.

* Temperature and Bacteria: Bacteria thrive in temperatures between 40°F and 140°F (4°C to 60°C). Cooking to 155°F ensures that the bacteria are killed.

Important note: Even though the casserole contains other ingredients, the ground beef is the most vulnerable component to harbor harmful bacteria.