
This beef and macaroni casserole blends juicy ground beef, soft elbow pasta, and a flavorful tomato sauce all in one dish. With melted mozzarella on top, this satisfying meal brings back childhood memories while being incredibly easy to throw together. It's the go-to choice when you need a quick but filling dinner.
INGREDIENTS- Elbow macaroni: 2 cups, creates the pasta foundation
- Tomato sauce: 8 oz can, forms the base of the sauce
- Ground beef: 1 lb, provides meaty goodness
- Tomato paste: 1 tbsp, concentrates the tomato flavor
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup, shredded, creates a stretchy topping
- Diced tomatoes: 14.5 oz can, gives chunky texture
- Onion: 1 small, chopped, adds natural sweetness
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, brings aroma to the sauce
- Dried basil: 1 tsp, offers herbal sweetness
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp, adds Italian flair
- Salt and pepper: to taste, balances all flavors
- Step 1:
- Cook the macaroni in water with salt until just tender, drain and put aside.
- Step 2:
- Brown the beef in a big pan, then throw in onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Step 3:
- Mix in the canned tomatoes, sauce, paste, basil, oregano, salt and pepper. Let it bubble gently for 5-7 minutes so flavors can mix.
- Step 4:
- Combine the drained pasta with the meat mixture, stir it up, then pour into a greased baking dish.
- Step 5:
- Cover everything with the shredded mozzarella and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese gets bubbly and golden brown.
- Scoop it straight from the baking dish while it's hot.
- Keep any extras in your fridge for up to 3 days; warming it in the oven works best.
- Toss in some red pepper flakes if you want to add heat.
- Try ground turkey as a lighter meat option.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Sam thinks using half mozzarella and half cheddar makes the top more flavorful.
You can jazz up this dish by adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients and taste.
A Comforting Family ClassicThis warm, cheesy pasta dish will become a household favorite thanks to its tasty meat sauce and gooey cheese topping.
FAQsCan I make Beefaroni ahead of time?
You bet! Make it early and pop it in the fridge. Just bake it right before you want to eat.
How should I store leftovers?
Put them in a container with a tight lid and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Beefaroni?
Absolutely! Wrap it up good in foil and it'll last about 2 months frozen. Just heat it in the oven later.
How can I add more flavor?
Switch the beef for Italian sausage or add more herbs like rosemary and thyme.
