The Ultimate Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole: A Comforting Classic

The Ultimate Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole: A Comforting Classic

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a warm, cheesy pasta dish fresh out of the oven. Whether it reminds you of childhood dinners, cozy family gatherings, or a simple yet hearty meal after a long day, Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. This dish brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a generous amount of gooey, melted cheese. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful casserole to add to your meal rotation, this recipe is a must-try! Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, how to customize it to suit your tastes, and of course, a step-by-step guide to making the best cheesy beef and macaroni casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 45 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner.
  2. Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like pasta, ground beef, and cheese, this recipe is affordable yet delicious.
  3. Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding kids, guests, or just yourself, this dish is always a hit!
  5. Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences—swap the beef for turkey, add extra veggies, or spice it up!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start cooking, let’s take a look at the key ingredients that make this dish shine:

For the Pasta & Meat Base:

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni – This classic pasta shape holds sauce well, but you can substitute with rotini, penne, or shells.
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Provides richness and protein. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds depth of flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for extra aromatic goodness.

For the Sauce:

  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds a fresh, slightly chunky texture.
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Provides a smooth and rich tomato base.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme for a delicious depth of flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle warmth and smokiness.

For the Creamy, Cheesy Goodness:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Gives the dish a sharp, melty, and creamy texture.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides the classic stretchy, gooey cheese pull.
  • 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness.
  • ½ cup heavy cream or milk – Enhances the creaminess of the casserole.

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
PREPARATION