Beefaroni Casserole(This Is Good And Easy)
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining tender macaroni, savory ground beef, and flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef with chopped celery and onion until beef is done. Drain off all grease.
- Add tomato sauce, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain well.
- Combine cooked macaroni, sauce, and 1 cup of grated Cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Transfer mixture to a casserole dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture. For a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the lean ground beef. You can also use whole wheat macaroni for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a small container of cream cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beefaroni Casserole with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving to brighten the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, covering them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefaroni Casserole(This Is Good And Easy) contains roughly 133 calories, with 7g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), calcium (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1396mg per serving (61% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze the Beefaroni Casserole?
Absolutely! After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake until heated through.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're not a fan of Cheddar, you can use mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. For a sharper taste, try using Gruyère or pepper jack cheese to give the casserole a spicy kick.
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).