Pizza Style Macaroni Casserole
A comforting pizza-inspired casserole combining pasta, seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the shell macaroni.
- Brown the hamburger and diced onion together; drain off any grease.
- Mix the cooked macaroni, browned hamburger and onion, tomato sauce, water, garlic salt, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano in a casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you love extra flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms, similar to what's found in Matthew'S Macaroni And Cheese. Don't forget to adjust the seasonings to your taste!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine for adults and is sure to be a hit at family gatherings. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside a dish like Lazy Man'S Pierogi for a comforting comfort food feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Style Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 177 calories, with 9g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1318mg per serving (57% 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 up to a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes. Each option will bring a different flavor profile, so choose one that suits your dietary preferences while still complementing the dish's overall taste.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions before mixing them into the casserole for the best results.
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).