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 onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup beef broth

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I absolutely love the cozy comfort of Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole. It's my go-to dish when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. The combination of ground beef, tender macaroni, and rich cheese always brings warmth to our table. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or even meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, you’ll want to save this recipe for your family dinners!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-27T15:45:35.532Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole, I was looking for a way to combine my favorite comfort foods into one satisfying dish. After a few trials, I discovered that using a mix of spices not only enhanced the flavor of the beef but also gave the dish an unforgettable aroma as it baked. I was excited to see my friends devour it, and their smiles said everything!

One of the key tips I learned along the way is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it helps the dish hold together better when you scoop it out. Trust me, you won't want to skip this step for the perfect serve!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for family gatherings
Cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth
Easy preparation with minimal clean-up involved

Mastering the Macaroni

Cooking the elbow macaroni to perfection is key to achieving that ideal texture in your casserole. Follow the package instructions, but consider cooking it just slightly shorter than suggested for al dente results, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain the pasta well, and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process. This prevents mushiness and ensures a lovely bite in every forkful.

If you prefer a different pasta shape for variety, feel free to swap out elbow macaroni for shells or fusilli. Just remember that different shapes may vary in cooking time, so keep a close eye to ensure they don’t overcook. The goal is to have a sturdy pasta that can hold up against the sauce and cheese.

Brown the Beef Like a Pro

Browning the ground beef properly is crucial for achieving rich flavor in your casserole. Heat your skillet over medium heat, and allow it to get hot before adding the meat. This helps develop that savory crust through the Maillard reaction, enhancing everything from the taste to the overall aroma of your dish. Aim to cook the beef until it’s no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

When adding your seasonings, sprinkle them evenly over the beef rather than dumping them in a pile. This ensures they incorporate well into the meat, enhancing flavor throughout. If you find excess grease in the skillet after browning, drain it before adding other ingredients to avoid a greasy casserole.

Storing and Freezing Tips

One of the best things about the Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole is its flexibility for meal prep. After baking, allow the leftovers to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also tastes even better the next day, giving the flavors time to meld.

If you're looking to freeze portions, scoop out individual servings into freezer-safe containers after they've cooled, and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating for that delightful gooey texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Macaroni Casserole

1 pound ground beef
2 cups elbow macaroni
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup beef broth

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until browned.

Combine Ingredients

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Add the cooked macaroni and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, top with the remaining cheddar cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding some diced bell peppers or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. This dish also freezes well, so you can double the recipe and save some for a busy night!

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese and beef, giving a refreshing contrast to each bite.

For an extra touch, you can garnish individual servings with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and brightness. If you're feeling adventurous, consider serving with a side of garlic bread for a filling and comforting family dinner experience.

Variation Ideas

Feel free to personalize this casserole by adding in your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition. Chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be sautéed together with the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef. This incorporation not only increases the dish’s nutritional value but also adds delightful textures and flavors.

For those craving a spicy kick, mix in some diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the beef while it cooks. You could also swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a combination of cheeses to elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with different cheese blends can transform this dish each time you make it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta like penne or shells works great in this casserole.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used as leaner alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool the casserole completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it.