Description
Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and family-friendly. With seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and a bubbly layer of cheddar and mozzarella, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead dinners.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz can tomato sauce
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Optional red pepper flakes or chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
3. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine macaroni, beef mixture, 1.5 cups cheddar, and 0.5 cup mozzarella. Mix well.
6. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheeses.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish if desired.
Notes
Cook pasta just al dente to avoid mushiness.
Shred cheese fresh for the best melt.
You can prep it a day in advance and bake later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 680
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Unsaturated Fat: 16
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 36
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 90
Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef, baked pasta, easy dinner