Description
Nothing quite compares to the feeling of indulging in a plate of Cheesy Beefaroni Casserole. Imagine tender elbow macaroni perfectly enveloped in a savory tomato sauce, richly seasoned beef, and topped with an oozy layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake when you are. In the meantime, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, letting it sizzle and cook until it becomes beautifully browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it apart, leaving no large chunks.
- Once the beef is near perfect, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them into the beef and watch them soften amidst the aroma, which should take about 2 to 3 more minutes. Next, infuse the mixture with the brightness of tomato sauce, the heartiness of diced tomatoes, and season with oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let this concoction simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing every flavor to meld together wonderfully.
- Incorporate the cooked elbow macaroni into the skillet and gently fold them into the rich sauce and beef mixture. Pour this hearty blend into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Layer the top generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into a deliciously tempting topping.
- Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to bubble on top. Once baked, take the casserole out and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This rest helps it set, making it easier to serve wonderful slices brimming with flavor.
Notes
Be sure to drain excess oil from the beef for a less greasy casserole. Feel free to adjust seasoning levels according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Protein: 26 g