Italian Macaroni Casserole(Makes 8 To 10 Servings.)
A hearty Italian-style casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender macaroni, and melted mozzarella for a comforting family meal with rich tomato flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a large pan.
- Add chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, water, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Add uncooked macaroni to the mixture and bring to a boil until the macaroni is thoroughly coated and cooked.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until the macaroni is tender.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the casserole and bake until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap elbow macaroni for penne or rigatoni for a different texture. If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes. For a creamier casserole, stir in a little ricotta cheese before baking. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal. It also pairs beautifully with Cheryl Skymer's Lasagne if you want to create an Italian-themed dinner. For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second increments until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Macaroni Casserole(Makes 8 To 10 Servings.) contains roughly 104 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1082mg per serving (47% 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
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. For a complete Italian meal, add a side of Homemade Spaghetti or a rich, hearty soup like minestrone.
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).