If you’re on the hunt for an easy dinner that satisfies the whole family, look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole. This recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone loves, combining tender elbow pasta, seasoned ground beef, and rich, tangy marinara sauce, all enveloped in a gooey layer of cheese. Perfectly versatile, you can whip this dish up for busy weeknights when you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, or enjoy it during lazy weekends as a comforting favorite. With its ease of preparation and unbeatable comfort food appeal, it’s no wonder that this casserole has become a family tradition for many.
Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is not just about convenience; it’s about flavor. The interplay of spices like oregano and paprika contributes to a depth of flavor that fills your home with an irresistible aroma while it bakes. Moreover, with the option to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or even varying the types of cheese, this dish can easily cater to your personal taste and nutritional preferences. Double the batch and freeze the leftovers for those hectic weeknights where cooking is the last thing on your mind. What’s not to love about a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying?
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a reliable option for family dinners.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, cheese, and pasta is the ultimate comfort food.
- Easy and Quick: With a prep and cook time of under an hour, it’s perfect for busy schedules.
- Versatile: You can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or swap out cheeses.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep, you can store it in the freezer for a quick future meal.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for your Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized to simplify the cooking process. You’ll need a large pot for boiling the macaroni and a large skillet for preparing the beef and sauce. A 9×13-inch baking dish is necessary for baking the casserole. Having a sharp knife for chopping onions and garlic will make prep quicker and easier, and a set of measuring cups and spoons will help you get the ingredient amounts just right.
Prior to cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that once your casserole is assembled, it will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden and bubbly. Make sure to have all ingredients pre-measured and ready to go, as this helps in maintaining a fluid cooking pace. After your kitchen is set up, you’ll be all set to create this delicious casserole!
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz jar of marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until it is just al dente. This ensures that the pasta maintains a slight bite even after baking. Once cooked, drain the macaroni well and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the meat sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about three minutes until it becomes translucent, releasing its flavors. Next, introduce the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This aromatic mixture creates a flavorful base for your casserole.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. If necessary, drain any excess grease from the skillet, as too much fat can affect the texture of the casserole.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Seasonings
Pour the marinara sauce over the browned beef, sprinkling in the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, paprika, and seasoning generously with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture to combine all ingredients and allow it to simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the meat sauce mixture, along with 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined. The sour cream adds creaminess and depth, making this casserole extra rich.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, and then pour the pasta and meat mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the remaining cheddar cheese and, if desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for an additional flavor layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this, uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Let it Rest and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve. As a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Mix in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli for additional nutrition and texture.
- Spices: Experiment with adding crushed red pepper for a hint of spice or switch up the herbs to fit your taste.
Cooking Notes
- For the best melt and creamy texture, always use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties.
- Feel free to customize by adding different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for varying flavors.
- If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Garnish each serving with extra herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired for a creamy addition.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your casserole with a simple green salad to add freshness and balance.
- Serve with garlic bread for a delightful side that complements the dish perfectly.
- For a more hearty meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Always taste the meat sauce before combining with the pasta to adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Consider cooking a double batch; this casserole freezes wonderfully for easy reheating later.
- When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.
- For an added crunch, top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 480 per serving
- Protein: 26g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time slightly as it will go in cold.
How do I freeze this casserole?
To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For extra veggies, consider roasting some alongside.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, customize the spice levels by adjusting the amount of black pepper or adding mild chili powder for a bit of heat without overwhelming the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it a wonderful choice for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to potlucks. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients or serving suggestions to tailor the recipe to your family’s preferences. We encourage you to try this comforting dish, and when you do, let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking!
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Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz jar of marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until it is just al dente. Once cooked, drain the macaroni well and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about three minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the browned beef and add the oregano, Italian seasoning, paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir well and simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the meat sauce, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sour cream. Stir well.
- Grease your baking dish and pour the pasta and meat mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Notes
Always taste the meat sauce before combining with the pasta to adjust seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 26 g