Save A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
I remember making this casserole for my family on chilly evenings. The delicious aroma brought everyone to the kitchen, eager for a serving.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced
- Vegetables: 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Vegetables: 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce
- Sauce: 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- Sauce: 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil)
- Sauce: 1/2 tsp paprika
- Sauce: Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- Dairy: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
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Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Veggies:
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add Sauce Ingredients:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Combine Macaroni:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Assemble & Top:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save My kids love scooping out hot, cheesy pasta and adding their favorite toppings. It always brings everyone together around the table.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a simple green salad and a slice of crusty bread. Fresh parsley or sliced green onions add a vibrant finish.
Make Ahead & Storage
Prepare up to baking and chill for up to 24 hours. Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3 days; reheat until hot, adding a splash of water if needed.
Nutrition Information
Per serving: Calories: 430, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 42 g, Protein: 26 g. Values are approximate.
Save This casserole is a classic comfort food that always brings smiles. Enjoy its hearty flavors again and again.
Cooking Questions
- → Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives and work well with the other ingredients.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Diced bell pepper is optional in the sauté step, and adding frozen peas or corn before baking gives extra color and nutrition.
- → What type of pasta is recommended?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for this casserole, holding sauce well and baking to a tender finish.
- → How do I ensure the cheese melts evenly?
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top before baking uncovered at 375°F for about 20 minutes until bubbly.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
