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
- 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.