Ground Beef And Macaroni Casserole
A hearty, savory casserole combining ground beef, pasta, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners with robust flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Cook the macaroni shells until al dente and drain.
- Add cooked macaroni, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and chili powder (if using) to the ground beef mixture.
- Heat everything together until thoroughly warmed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the casserole before heating. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of chili powder or diced jalapeños. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or a meat substitute. This dish is adaptable to your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or buttered rolls complement the dish well, making it even more satisfying. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with Hamburger Harvest Casserole for a comforting meal.
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 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 344 calories, with 7g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2546mg per serving (111% 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 baking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before heating to ensure even cooking.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
You can include vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition. Simply sauté them with the onions before adding the ground beef. For a whole grain option, use whole wheat macaroni or substitute with quinoa for a healthier twist.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot.
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).