Easy Beef Bake
An easy, hearty beef bake featuring macaroni, seasoned ground beef, and vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich tomato flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions; rinse and drain.
- Brown ground beef with chopped celery and onions; drain off fat.
- Stir in tomato paste, water, and canned tomatoes.
- Add drained corn and seasoning (salt, pepper, chili powder).
- Stir to mix thoroughly.
- Combine cooked macaroni and meat sauce in a casserole dish.
- Pour into a 2 1/2-quart casserole.
- If desired, sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the beef mixture before combining with the macaroni. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked macaroni can speed up the process. This dish can also benefit from additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Beef Bake is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside a bowl of Hot Dog And Hamburger Chili for a chili-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. This recipe also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Beef Bake contains roughly 480 calories, with 19g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different shapes may require varying times to cook al dente.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Each will give a different flavor profile, so choose based on your dietary needs or preferences.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.
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).