Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole for Busy Nights

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

If you’re in need of a comforting meal that doesn’t demand hours of prep, look no further than this Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole. With layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is not only delicious but also a time-saver. It combines familiar flavors in a way that’s satisfying for all ages. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze.

• Quick to prepare and cook
• Comforting flavors the whole family will love
• Great for meal prep or leftovers
• Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Ingredients

• 8 oz. elbow macaroni
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 cup water

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Pasta Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and water. Stir until well combined and let simmer for 5 minutes.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• For added flavor, consider sautéing some bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Ensure the beef is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) for safety.

Easy Variations

• Swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or rotini for a different pasta shape.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Mix in some frozen peas or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition.

What to Serve With It

• A side salad for a refreshing contrast
• Garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce
• Steamed vegetables for a balanced meal

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Recipe Card