Onion-Beef Macaroni Casserole
A hearty baked macaroni casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, savory onion soup flavor, and melted Cheddar cheese—perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground chuck well on all sides.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Stir in onion soup mix, flour, tomato sauce, and water. Simmer, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cooked elbow macaroni.
- Transfer to a 1 1/2-quart baking dish and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the ground chuck with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for vegetarian recipes. You can also use whole wheat elbow macaroni for a healthier twist. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Candied Sweet Potatoes for a comforting dinner. For added flavor, consider offering hot sauce or a side of garlic bread to complement the dish's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion-Beef Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 949 calories, with 48g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (96% of the Daily Value), iron (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 910mg per serving (40% 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 adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with mozzarella for a melty texture or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the flavors of the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. For a comforting dessert, consider finishing your meal with Country Pecan Pie for a satisfying end to the evening.
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).