Beef-Cheddar Macaroni Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion in margarine until translucent.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed onion, spaghetti sauce, cooked and drained macaroni, 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, sliced mushrooms, basil, garlic powder, and oregano.
- Spoon the mixture into an 11 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake, covered, for 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Remove from oven and evenly sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To elevate flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or swapping in ground turkey for a leaner option. If you don't have elbow macaroni, any pasta shape will work. For a creamy twist, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese. This dish is similar to Beef-A-Roni, so you can use a similar sauce for a quick meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Rice Casserole for a hearty dinner. For a more casual approach, you can serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a simple coleslaw to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until heated through, about 2-3 minutes. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Cheddar Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 537 calories, with 19g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (173% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (129% of the Daily Value), and calcium (109% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 36g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, and then follow the original baking instructions.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, substitute with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your choice for optimal flavor.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time and check for doneness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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).