Beef And Onion Casserole
A hearty beef and macaroni casserole with cheesy topping, combining savory flavors of ground beef, tomato sauce, and onions, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, water, and dry onion soup mix to the beef. Simmer for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be a lean substitute. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or even a blend for added flavor. If you want a heartier dish, add in some frozen mixed vegetables, which will complement the flavors well.
Serving Suggestions
This beef and onion casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be served with crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a dish like Cheddar Beef Goulash to explore more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Onion Casserole contains roughly 620 calories, with 33g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (66% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a minute or two longer to cook, providing a nutty flavor that complements the beef and cheese well.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the beef and onion casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).