Easy Baked Beef and Macaroni Casserole Recipe

One of my favorite comfort foods has always been a hearty, cheesy beef macaroni casserole. This recipe is a simple, satisfying way to turn pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing dinner. By scattering dry elbow macaroni over raw crumbled ground beef and baking it all together with just a few key ingredients, you get a delicious one-dish meal that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights.

this Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to prepare yet feels homemade and comforting, this beef macaroni casserole is for you. It’s a recipe that blends the ease of dry pasta baking with the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection in a glass baking dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only one dish to bake and clean up, saving time in the kitchen.
• Uses dry elbow macaroni, no pre-cooking required.
• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Rich and cheesy with a meaty tomato sauce base.
• Perfectly balanced flavors that satisfy all ages.

Ingredients

Gather these everyday ingredients to make your beef macaroni casserole come together effortlessly.

• 1 pound ground beef, raw and crumbled
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

How to Make Scatter dry elbow macaroni over raw crumbled ground beef, alongside 3 ingredients, into a glass b…

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the raw ground beef, dry elbow macaroni, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed.
3. Scatter the mixture evenly into the prepared glass baking dish, gently pressing it down to create an even layer.
4. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the top, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, and return to the oven uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use a glass baking dish to ensure even cooking and easy monitoring of the casserole’s progress.
• Make sure to evenly scatter the dry elbow macaroni over the beef to allow proper cooking and absorption of flavors.
• If you prefer a saucier casserole, add an extra 1/4 cup of water or tomato sauce before baking.
• Feel free to swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Let the casserole rest before serving to allow it to set and make serving cleaner and easier.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover beef macaroni casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh longer, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Reheat refrigerated portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta and beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with similar small pasta shapes like shells or rotini. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly, so watch for doneness.

Is it necessary to cook the ground beef before baking?

No, this recipe is designed to bake the raw crumbled ground beef together with the dry pasta and sauce. The baking time ensures the beef cooks fully and flavors meld.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance nutrition and flavor. Add them raw with the other ingredients and adjust seasonings as needed.

What can I serve with this beef macaroni casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, balanced meal. Garlic bread is also a great accompaniment for soaking up extra sauce.