Beverly Slimm'S Beef And Mozzarella Bake
A hearty and cheesy baked pasta dish featuring savory ground beef, aromatic basil, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings, this casserole combines rich flavors with tender macaroni, creating a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dried basil leaves, crushed ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 can condensed Italian tomato soup ⓘ
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 1/4 c. water ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. shredded Mozzarella cheese (6 oz.) ⓘ
- 4 c. cooked, medium shell macaroni (about 3 c. dry) ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with crushed basil, black pepper, and minced garlic until browned, stirring to separate the meat. Spoon off excess fat.
- Stir in the condensed Italian tomato soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, water, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the cooked macaroni and mix well.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. If you don't have condensed cream of mushroom soup, a homemade white sauce works well as a substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Ensure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the bake.
Serving Suggestions
This beef and mozzarella bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a hearty side, serve with garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top before serving for added freshness. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside Maple Heights Baked Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beverly Slimm'S Beef And Mozzarella Bake contains roughly 775 calories, with 27g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% 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 mixture and macaroni ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses like Parmesan and Fontina. Cheddar cheese also works but will change the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are pre-cooked and excess moisture is removed to avoid a soggy bake.
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).