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This rich and hearty Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food your dinner table has been craving. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is wrapped in a creamy layer of sharp cheddar cheese and mixed with juicy, well-seasoned ground beef. Baked until bubbly and golden on top, it delivers warmth, satisfaction, and plenty of rich flavor in every bite. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings when you want something filling and crowd-pleasing with minimal fuss.
I first made this casserole on a chilly weekend and now it has become a regular request in our house especially when we want comfort food that is easy yet satisfying.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: which holds the sauce and cheese well with its curved shape
- Ground beef: providing savory flavor and protein that makes the dish hearty
- Onion: adds depth and sweetness when sautéed to complement the beef
- Garlic: delivers an aromatic punch that enhances the overall taste
- Tomato sauce: binds the beef and pasta with a tangy richness
- Cheddar cheese: is the star ingredient creating gooey meltiness and sharp flavor
- Salt and pepper: bring out the natural flavors of every ingredient
- Paprika: optional to add a subtle smoky warmth and a touch of color
- Butter or olive oil: for sautéing the onion and garlic enhancing their flavors
Choose fresh aromatics and quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best results. Use ground beef with moderate fat content for moist and flavorful casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente following the package instructions. Drain immediately and set aside keeping the pasta warm.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat add butter or olive oil. Cook diced onions slowly until soft and translucent about 5 to 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant being careful not to burn it.
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up and cook until browned evenly about 8 to 10 minutes. Season generously with salt pepper and paprika if using stirring to combine.
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for 5 to 7 minutes to meld the flavors nicely.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Transfer the cooked macaroni into a large mixing bowl. Add half of the cheddar cheese and then fold in the beef and tomato sauce mixture until everything is well coated and evenly combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish lightly. Spread the macaroni and beef mixture evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a bubbly golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish loosely with foil to keep moisture in. Bake for 20 minutes then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before serving so it sets and makes scooping easier. Enjoy the creamy cheesy beef goodness with a fresh side or just on its own.
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My favorite ingredient is definitely the sharp cheddar cheese which brings that classic cheesy richness. A memorable moment was when my kids came home after school and instantly asked if I made "that yummy cheesy beef dinner" because the smell filled the whole house and made them instantly hungry.
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before covering to prevent sogginess. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes beautifully. For best taste thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap elbow macaroni for penne rotini or shells without losing texture. Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein. Try Monterey Jack Colby or a Mexican cheese blend for slightly different cheese flavors. Tomato sauce can be replaced with marinara or a mild salsa for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a bright green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted veggies to cut through the richness. Garlic bread pairs especially well for an indulgent meal. This casserole doubles as a perfect potluck dish or a satisfying lunch the next day.
Cultural Context
Macaroni and cheese casseroles have roots in classic American comfort food traditions with origins tracing back to European baked pasta dishes. This version combines the timeless trio of beef pasta and cheese beloved in many families.
Pro Tips
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta or it will become mushy after baking.
- Do not skip sautéing onions and garlic slowly as it develops a sweeter and more complex flavor base.
- Covering the casserole with foil during baking prevents the cheese from burning before the dish is heated through evenly.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I make this spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture during cooking for a fiery kick.
- → What pasta alternatives work well?
Penne, rotini, or shell pasta all hold sauce nicely and provide great texture in this baked dish.
- → Which cheeses can replace cheddar?
Monterey Jack, Colby, or Mexican cheese blends melt smoothly and add rich flavor as tasty substitutes.
- → Is it suitable for freezing?
Yes, the casserole freezes well before baking or as cooked leftovers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.
- → Can I add vegetables to the mix?
Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra texture and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
- → Should I cover the dish while baking?
Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes to keep moisture, then remove foil to develop a golden, bubbly cheese crust.