Quick And Easy Beef And Macaroni Casserole
A quick, cheesy beef and macaroni casserole with savory sauce and creamy dressing, perfect for a comforting family meal that's easy to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce, cooked macaroni, and Miracle Whip; heat until well combined and heated through.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F until the cheese melts and is bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding minced garlic and onion while browning the meat. You can also substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, or even use whole grain pasta for a healthier option. If you want a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover spaghetti sauce from other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch. For a heartier meal, you could serve it alongside the 'Nine To Five' Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Beef And Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 375 calories, with 45g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1885mg per serving (82% 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 or chicken for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary, since lean meats can dry out more quickly. You could also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole ahead of time, assemble it up to the baking step and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if coming from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning or make a quick homemade sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This flexibility allows you to customize the flavors to your liking while still enjoying this comforting casserole.
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).