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Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole


  • Author: Christophe

Description

This comforting casserole is packed with savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and three types of cheese, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a hearty and delicious meal the whole family will love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups uncooked macaroni
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2️⃣ Cook the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.

3️⃣ Brown the beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbly, breaking it up as it cooks.

4️⃣ Add the sauce and seasoning: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook gently while you prepare the macaroni.

5️⃣ Cook the macaroni: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

6️⃣ Combine macaroni and beef sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef sauce. Mix in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

7️⃣ Assemble the casserole: Transfer the macaroni and beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.

8️⃣ Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

9️⃣ Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly for easier serving.

Notes

  • You can add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
  • For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.