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Comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole

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A warm, hearty, and cheesy ground beef casserole that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for family dinners and picky eaters alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook another 1 minute without browning.
  4. Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Break it up and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, 1 tsp dried oregano, and optional ¼ tsp red pepper flakes.
  5. Pour in 1 ½ cups tomato sauce and 1 cup beef broth. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until thick but saucy.
  6. Mix cooked pasta with the beef sauce until evenly coated.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta and beef mixture evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top. Add the remaining pasta mixture, then top with 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on edges.
  9. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta before baking; it should be al dente. Brown ground beef in batches to avoid steaming. Mix mozzarella with sharp cheddar for best melt and flavor. Let casserole rest 5 minutes after baking for easier serving. Optional additions include vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during sauté step. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta; for dairy-free, use vegan cheese and vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, family dinner, easy dinner, comfort food, baked pasta, mozzarella, cheddar, quick meal

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/comforting-cheesy-ground-beef-casserole-recipe-easy-family-dinner-ideas/