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.
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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.
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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.
