Cheesy Beef Macaroni Casserole
A comforting casserole with beef, macaroni, and melted cheese.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper optional
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes canned
- 24 ounces meatless pasta sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 0.5 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce as substitute
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat the neutral oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sprinkle with chili powder, Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes, breaking up large pieces with a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally until browned, about 1-3 minutes more. Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onions and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Stir in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Combine well and let the mixture come together.
- Increase heat to high and bring the sauce to a simmer. Then, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the sauce until well combined.
- In a baking dish (at least 11x7½ inches or 2.5 quarts), place half of the beef and macaroni mixture. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese (4 ounces).
- Add the remaining beef and macaroni mixture on top, then sprinkle with the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly on the edges and the cheese is melted. Tip: For a golden top, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
For a spicier dish, include crushed red pepper. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.