Macaroni And Beef Casserole
A hearty baked macaroni and beef casserole combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese. Flavored with oregano and tomato paste, it offers comforting, satisfying bites ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and customize with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown ground beef, sausage, and chopped onion.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add tomato paste, water, oregano, and salt to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish, layer half of the cooked macaroni, half of the meat sauce, and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layering with remaining macaroni, meat sauce, and cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese with the meat sauce before layering. If you don't have oregano, Italian seasoning can be a great substitute. To cut down on cooking time, use pre-cooked macaroni or add frozen vegetables to the layers for added nutrition and flavor. This casserole is a great way to incorporate leftover meat from other meals, like Mom's Best Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni and beef casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of salsa or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for added flavor. For more hearty options, browse more American recipes to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or cover with foil and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Beef Casserole contains roughly 18 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg per serving (22% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can use mozzarella for a gooey texture, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to mix different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for extra depth of flavor. Herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the taste, making your casserole even more delicious.
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).