Elbow Macaroni Casserole
A comforting baked macaroni casserole with seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners and satisfying hearty appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Cook elbow macaroni until tender; drain and set aside.
- Blend whole peeled tomatoes in a blender until all chopped.
- Combine cooked beef, macaroni, and blended tomatoes in a mixing bowl and mix well.
- Transfer mixture to an ungreased casserole dish.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted.
- Optional: sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some diced onions or bell peppers while browning the ground beef. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a twist. For added texture, try mixing in some breadcrumbs on top before baking, reminiscent of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This elbow macaroni casserole is great on its own but pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve with hot sauce or pickled jalapeños on the side. You can also enjoy it alongside garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Microwave leftovers in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elbow Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 165 calories, with 10g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
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 in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure it doesn't become overcooked before baking.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this elbow macaroni casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free elbow macaroni and ensure that the canned tomatoes and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying!
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, as this will help it cook evenly.
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).