Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole Recipe

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Recipe

Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole Recipe

Introduction

The Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the kind of dish that warms the heart as much as the stomach. Imagine tender macaroni smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, mingling with juicy, seasoned ground beef, and baked to perfection under a golden layer of melted cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food — one that’s been a favorite in homes for decades. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you simply want to gather the family around the table.

History

The origins of beef and macaroni casseroles trace back to the early-to-mid 20th century in North America, when home cooks began combining pasta, meat, and cheese into one baked dish for convenience. During the Great Depression and wartime rationing, casseroles became a staple because they could stretch limited ingredients into hearty, filling meals. Over time, the recipe evolved into countless variations, with “cheesy” versions becoming a symbol of indulgent comfort. Today, it’s a dish cherished from busy households to nostalgic diners.

Benefits

  • Nutritional balance: Combines protein from beef, carbs from pasta, and calcium from cheese.
  • Budget-friendly: Uses everyday pantry ingredients.
  • Time-saving: Can be prepped ahead and baked when needed.
  • Versatile: Easy to add vegetables or swap meats.
  • Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Casserole Base:

  • 450 g (1 lb) elbow macaroni
  • 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 2 cups tomato sauce or passata
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil mix)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Method for the Pasta

  1. Cook the macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente (slightly undercooked, since it will bake later).
  2. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Method for the Beef Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and bell pepper, sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let the sauce simmer on low for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Method for the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour to make a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (5–7 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat, stir in 2 cups cheddar cheese and a pinch of nutmeg until smooth.

Assembly & Baking

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine macaroni, beef sauce, and cheese sauce. Mix well.
  3. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella evenly over the top.
  5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Formation (How the Flavors Come Together)

When the casserole bakes, the pasta absorbs the beefy tomato sauce, while the creamy cheese sauce clings to every piece. The mozzarella and cheddar melt into a gooey, golden crust, sealing in the moisture and creating a satisfying contrast between creamy interior and cheesy top.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole isn’t just dinner — it’s a moment of connection. It’s the sound of forks clinking against plates, the smell of baked cheese filling the air, and the comfort of knowing you’re eating something made with care.

For the Lovers of This Dish

This casserole is for the cheese lovers who believe there’s no such thing as “too much cheese.”
It’s for the pasta lovers who find joy in every forkful.
It’s for the family cook who loves seeing empty plates and smiling faces.
And most importantly, it’s for the comfort food romantics — the ones who know that a hearty casserole is a hug you can eat.

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