Ground Beef Macaroni Casserole
Ground Beef Macaroni Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines bold flavors with simple ingredients, appealing to families and anyone craving a satisfying, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Boil macaroni noodles for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Mix cooked beef, onion, drained noodles, tomato juice, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cheese and continue baking until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef and onion. If you're out of tomato juice, crushed tomatoes or a mix of tomato sauce and water can work as substitutes. You can also swap the macaroni for any pasta shape you prefer, or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. This dish is reminiscent of California Casserole, offering a comforting, hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or incorporating some corn into the dish. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed alongside other beef recipes for a hearty family dinner.
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 prevent drying out. Microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For best results, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 277 calories, with 13g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (199% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1748mg per serving (76% 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 a day in advance. Assemble it in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this casserole?
Cheddar is a popular choice due to its melting qualities and rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a gooey texture or a blend of your favorites like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some spice. Just ensure the cheese is shredded for even melting.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth or a tomato-based sauce to maintain moisture and flavor. This allows you to enjoy a similar comforting dish while keeping it meat-free.
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).