Cheesy Meaty Macaroni Casserole
A hearty, cheesy meaty macaroni casserole combining flavorful ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni in boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add the jar of Prego spaghetti sauce to the cooked beef and simmer for a few minutes.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the meat sauce in a large mixing bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta cheese to the meat sauce before mixing it with the macaroni. If you prefer a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while cooking. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for later use.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy meaty macaroni casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Beef And Sausage Casserole for a hearty dinner spread. For a fun twist, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Meaty Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 638 calories, with 42g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (84% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1007mg per serving (44% 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, just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Prego spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have Prego spaghetti sauce, any marinara or pasta sauce will work well. You can also make your own sauce by sautéing garlic and onions, then adding crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices to get a similar flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate cooked vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them before combining with the beef and sauce.
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).