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Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. This comforting dish combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese, all baked together in a savory tomato sauce. It’s not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy beef and pasta casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick to make, perfect for families, and a great way to use up pantry staples. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your preferences!
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings.
- Comfort Food: A warm, hearty meal everyone will love.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices.
- Leftover Friendly: Great for meal prep and reheating.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How to Make Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the beef mixture. Mix well.
- Transfer half of the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Add the remaining beef and pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
Easy Variations
- Swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or rotini for a different shape.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add a layer of cooked spinach or zucchini for added greens.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a crunchy topping.
What to Serve With It
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- A side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Storage and Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine cooked macaroni and beef mixture. Mix well.
- Transfer half to a greased baking dish, sprinkle half of the cheese on top.
- Layer the remaining beef mixture, then top with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes: Customize with your favorite veggies or cheese blends for a unique twist!
