Macaroni, Ground Meat And Cheese Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender macaroni, savory ground meat, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and customizable with your favorite seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground chuck over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the meat, cooking until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic salt, rosemary, oregano, or other preferred spices.
- Add the can of tomatoes to the meat and vegetable mixture, simmering for a few minutes.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the meat and tomato mixture.
- Transfer everything to a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the dish further. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a can of cream of mushroom soup or a splash of cream. Adjust seasonings to your taste, and experiment with different cheese varieties for topping.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a comforting twist, serve with a side of Karen'S Green Bean Casserole to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. You can also freeze the casserole before baking for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni, Ground Meat And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 136 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein.
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 completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What types of cheese work best for this dish?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with a meat alternative like lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based ground meat. Ensure to adjust the seasonings to complement the new ingredients for a delicious vegetarian version.
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).