Go Back
Hearty Beef Macaroni Casserole topped with melted cheese

Baked Macaroni and Beef Casserole

A comforting and satisfying meal combining macaroni and cheese with ground beef, ideal for family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef Lean or choice cut for better flavor.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped For added flavor.
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (15 ounces), drained For added richness.
  • 1 can tomato sauce (8 ounces) To bind and flavor the casserole.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese For topping; can use other cheese varieties.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Enhances flavor profile.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
  • 2 cups beef broth For moisture.
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables Optional, for added nutrition.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Mixing and Assembling
  1. Mix Ingredients: Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and cooked macaroni. If you're adding mixed vegetables, fold them in at this stage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef and macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  2. Cool & Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Tips: Add spinach or kale for nutrition. For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese. Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes if desired. This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.