Macaroni Casserole with Lean Ground Beef (30 Minutes)

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Craving a comforting and delicious meal that comes together quickly? Look no further than this mouthwatering macaroni casserole! This hearty dish combines tender macaroni pasta, savory lean ground beef, and a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. The unique blend of spices and seasonings adds an irresistible depth of flavor, making it a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week. Let’s begin!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz macaroni pasta
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the macaroni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and the beef-tomato sauce mixture. Mix until everything is well coated.
  6. Transfer the macaroni and beef mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Once the cheese is golden and gooey, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Loaded with nutritious and filling ground beef, pasta, and cheese, this macaroni casserole is a complete meal in itself. For a burst of freshness, serve it with a side of crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.heresyourdinner.com/macaroni-casserole-with-lean-ground-beef-30-minutes/