Cheesy Baked Beef Macaroni Casserole Recipe

July 6, 2026 By admin

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food dinner, this Cheesy Baked Beef Macaroni Casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Tender elbow macaroni is combined with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese before being baked until hot and bubbly. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy one-pan family dinner.
Loaded with melted cheese.
Made with simple pantry ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep.
Kid-friendly comfort food.
Freezer-friendly.
Ready in under one hour.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

12 ounces elbow macaroni
1 pound lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 ounces marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large pot
Large skillet
9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing spoon
Colander

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic.
Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture.
Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Recipe Notes

Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t become soft while baking.
Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving for cleaner portions.
Use a quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

Expert Tips

Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Mix mozzarella with cheddar for extra richness.
Brown the beef well to develop deeper flavor.
Finish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe Variations

Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Use ground turkey instead of beef.
Mix in spinach for extra vegetables.
Add ricotta cheese for a lasagna-inspired version.
Top with crispy breadcrumbs before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed broccoli
Fresh garden salad

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 560
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 690mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, shells, or rigatoni all work well.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Use enough sauce and avoid overbaking. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven.

Recipe Details

Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Method: Baking
Diet: Meat-Based
Yield: 6 servings

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Beef Macaroni Casserole is an easy, hearty dinner that combines tender pasta, flavorful ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese in every bite. It’s a comforting recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, potlucks, and family gatherings, making it a dependable favorite for any occasion.