Quick Description
This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is a timeless comfort dish made with seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Pasta
Cook macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. - Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease. - Season
Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the Sauce
Add tomato sauce and beef broth to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes. - Combine
Stir cooked macaroni into the beef mixture until evenly coated. - Assemble
Transfer mixture to baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. - Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 26g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Benefits
- Classic Comfort Food: Familiar flavors everyone loves
- One-Dish Meal: Protein, carbs, and cheese all together
- Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients
- Great Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day
Additional Notes
- Do not overcook pasta—it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Add a splash of milk for extra creaminess if desired.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein:
- Kid-Friendly:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta
- Low-Carb:
Brief Introduction
This casserole is the kind of meal that feels like home. Simple, warm, and satisfying, it’s the perfect answer to “what’s for dinner?” when you want something everyone will happily eat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Cook pasta until just tender
- Brown and season beef
- Simmer with tomato sauce
- Combine, top with cheese, and bake
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Lean beef works best; turkey can be substituted
- Macaroni: Elbows are classic, but shells or rotini work
- Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness; mozzarella adds melt
- Italian Seasoning: Enhances flavor without overpowering
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations:
- Add peas or corn
- Use taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist
- Stir in cream cheese for extra richness
Serve With:
- Green salad
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven or microwave until heated through
