Beef & Cheese Bake
A hearty baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, melted cheddar cheese, and tender macaroni, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup of milk, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain.
- Return the cooked macaroni to the pan along with butter, 1/3 cup of milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and green pepper.
- Heat and stir until the butter and cheese are melted.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Spoon the macaroni mixture on top of the meat.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an added flavor boost, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or rotini. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the milk slightly. Adding some garlic powder or Italian seasoning can elevate the dish even further. This recipe is a great 'So Easy Meal In One' option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef & Cheese Bake with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up any remaining sauce. For a comforting meal, consider serving alongside the '5-Hour Baked Stew' or a fresh green bean casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef & Cheese Bake contains roughly 790 calories, with 32g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), protein (63% of the Daily Value), and calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 749mg per serving (33% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and macaroni mixtures a day in advance. Assemble the dish and cover it tightly, then refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using a roux with broth and mushrooms. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and milk can provide a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze the Beef & Cheese Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by 20-30 minutes, covering it with foil for the first half.
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).