Save A comforting, budget-friendly casserole featuring tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners.
This casserole became my weeknight hero when I needed something satisfying yet straightforward for my busy crew.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) elbow macaroni
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean)
- Vegetables: 1 medium onion, diced, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Sauce: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce, 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mixed oregano and basil), 1/2 tsp paprika, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dairy: 1 1/2 cups (180 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook 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 ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) to the beef. Sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Make Sauce:
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine:
- Add cooked macaroni to skillet. Mix well to coat with sauce.
- Bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Finish:
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Save My kids pile their plates every time, and it's requested for potlucks by extended family, too!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this classic casserole with a green salad and a slice of crusty bread for a balanced meal.
Make It Your Own
Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner take, and toss in a handful of frozen peas or corn for a colorful boost.
Nutrition Information
Each serving offers about 430 calories, 18 g fat, 42 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein.
Save Serve up this comforting bake for an easy dinner everyone will love. Leftovers taste just as delicious the next day!
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal due to its shape and size, which hold the sauce well and bake evenly.
- → Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives that work well and complement the flavors.
- → How do Italian herbs enhance the casserole?
Italian herbs like oregano and basil add depth and a subtle aromatic quality to the tomato sauce base.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking to save time on serving day.
- → What toppings can add extra freshness before serving?
Chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions provide a bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole.