Cheesy Baked Beef & Macaroni Casserole

Description

Cheesy Baked Beef & Macaroni Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly comfort food made with tender elbow macaroni, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. Everything is combined and baked until hot and bubbly with a golden cheesy topping. This easy casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, meal prep, and freezer meals.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 12 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes.

Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Add tomato paste, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for about 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Remove from heat.

Step 4: Mix Everything

In a large mixing bowl combine:

• Cooked macaroni
• Beef mixture
• Sour cream
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella

Mix until evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spread the mixture evenly into the dish.

Top with:

• Remaining cheddar
• Remaining mozzarella
• Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Broil for 2 minutes if desired for a golden crust.

Step 7: Serve

Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Enjoy warm.

Chef’s Notes

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
• Slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Lean ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Stir in cooked mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Drain the beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Mix ingredients while the pasta is still warm so the cheese melts evenly.
• Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing to help it hold its shape.
• Double the recipe for easy freezer meals.

Variations

Mexican Style

Use taco seasoning, salsa, pepper jack cheese, and black beans.

Bacon Cheeseburger

Add cooked bacon and replace mozzarella with American cheese.

Extra Veggie

Mix in spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli.

Creamier Version

Add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese to the sauce.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed green beans
• Roasted broccoli
• Mixed garden salad
• Buttered dinner rolls

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Ground beef and cheese provide protein to support muscle maintenance and satiety.
• Calcium Source: Cheese contributes calcium for healthy bones and teeth.
• Energy-Rich: Pasta provides carbohydrates that fuel daily activities.
• Customizable: Add vegetables such as spinach, peppers, or broccoli to increase fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well, making it convenient for busy schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I freeze it before baking?

Yes. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

3. What cheese melts best?

Cheddar and mozzarella provide a great balance of flavor and stretch, while Parmesan adds a savory finish.

4. Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, shells, cavatappi, or rigatoni all work well.

5. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Avoid overbaking, slightly undercook the pasta, and ensure there is enough sauce to coat the noodles.

6. Can I make it spicy?

Yes. Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken?

Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef for a lighter variation.

8. What vegetables pair well with this casserole?

Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, broccoli, peas, and corn are all excellent additions.

Recipe Summary

This Cheesy Baked Beef & Macaroni Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal featuring seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and a generous blend of melted cheeses. It’s simple to prepare, easy to customize, ideal for meal prep, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.