Macaroni-Cheese-Beef Casserole
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining macaroni, seasoned ground beef, stewed tomatoes, and melted Cheddar, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the macaroni and cheese dinner according to the package instructions; set aside.
- Place ground beef in a skillet, stirring until it crumbles; drain excess fat.
- Combine the prepared macaroni and cheese, cooked beef, and drained stewed tomatoes in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is melted, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the macaroni and cheese before combining it with the beef and tomatoes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a leaner option. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the dish's nutritional value. This meal is perfect for using up pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish. This casserole is reminiscent of classic American recipes and pairs beautifully with Jalapeno Black-Eyed Pea And Rice Casserole for a comforting dinner spread.
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 heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot, which helps maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni-Cheese-Beef Casserole contains roughly 712 calories, with 36g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1361mg per serving (59% 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 ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of stewed tomatoes?
If you don't have stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also add a bit of Italian seasoning to replicate the flavor profile of stewed tomatoes, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole.
Can I freeze the macaroni-cheese-beef casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake 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).