Ground Beef And Macaroni Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Macaroni Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups elbow macaroni; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I love making Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole for family dinners because it’s hearty and comforting. This dish has become a staple in our household. The blend of savory beef, tender macaroni, and gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors that everyone enjoys. Plus, it's an easy one-pot meal that satisfies both kids and adults. Whenever I prepare it, I always load it up with some veggies to make it even more nutritious without compromising on taste. It’s a dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:13:35.297Z

Every time I make Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole, I’m taken back to my childhood. My mom would often whip it up for family gatherings, and it was always a hit. The secret? A touch of garlic and onion sautéed with the beef brings out an incredible depth of flavor. I love adding some chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

This dish is great for meal prep too! I often make a double batch and freeze half for busy nights. Just reheat it in the oven, and you’ll have a cozy meal ready in no time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying comfort food for the whole family
Cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy prep, perfect for busy weeknights

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole plays a crucial role in developing its flavor and texture. The ground beef provides a rich, savory base that transforms the dish into a hearty meal. Choosing high-quality ground beef will enhance the overall taste, while draining excess fat keeps it from becoming greasy. The diced onions and minced garlic contribute aromatic depth, making the dish more fragrant and flavorful.

The elbow macaroni acts as the perfect vehicle for the sauce and cheese, ensuring every bite is creamy and satisfying. Be careful not to overcook the pasta when boiling; it should be al dente so it can absorb the flavors of the dish during baking. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or pasta shapes to suit your family's preferences. This flexibility makes the recipe versatile and allows for customization.

Tips for a Perfect Bake

Baking is where the magic happens as the flavors meld and the cheese becomes bubbly and golden. It's important to preheat your oven to the correct temperature; 350°F (175°C) ensures the cheese melts without burning. To achieve even browning, consider placing your dish on the center rack, giving it the best chance for consistent heat distribution. If you notice that the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil for the first half of the baking time.

For a crispy topping, you may also mix in breadcrumbs with the cheese before baking. This will create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Just keep an eye on it towards the end of baking to prevent it from becoming overly browned. After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the casserole:

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

This easy combination will create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your casserole:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onions and minced garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, bell peppers, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Prepare Macaroni

In a separate pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.

Combine and Bake

In a large casserole dish, combine the beef mixture and cooked macaroni. Top with shredded cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.

Let it cool slightly before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add your favorite spices such as paprika or Italian herbs. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain the best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out; heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

If you're looking to make this meal ahead of time, it can be assembled beforehand and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover it with foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, adjust the cooking time as it might take a little longer since the casserole will be chilled.

Customization Ideas

This casserole is perfect for adding in vegetables to enhance nutritional value. Consider incorporating chopped spinach, zucchini, or diced tomatoes. Just sauté these with the ground beef to soften them before combining everything. This not only adds vibrant colors but also a delightful variety of textures in each bite.

For those seeking a bit more heat, adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Alternatively, if you're aiming for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or plant-based ground meat can replace the beef without sacrificing taste. Each of these variations makes it easy to cater to different dietary needs and preferences while enjoying the same comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat macaroni?

Absolutely! Whole wheat macaroni can be used for a healthier twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole or cooked leftovers for up to 3 months.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added nutrition.