Macaroni-Beef Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, resulting in a savory, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Separate ground beef into one-inch chunks in a frying pan.
- Add chopped onion and chopped green peppers to the pan.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
- Pour off grease and season the meat mixture with salt and pepper.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, canned corn, and cooked macaroni to the meat mixture.
- Place the mixture in a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes, stirring twice during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. You can swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This casserole is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni-beef casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or cornbread make excellent sides to complement the dish. For a heartier option, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables. This casserole also pairs beautifully with Beef Chili for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered, until heated through. For quicker reheating, use the microwave, but cover it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni-Beef Casserole contains roughly 291 calories, with 16g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (200% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1460mg per serving (63% 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 meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using a leaner meat, as it may cook faster than ground beef.
Can I freeze the macaroni-beef casserole?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I add to make it creamier?
For a creamier texture, consider stirring in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese into the meat mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
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).