02/15/2026
🧀 Cheesy Beef Macaroni Casserole
Comforting, creamy, and cheesy — the ultimate weeknight dinner!
⏱️ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6–8
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🧂 Ingredients
For the casserole:
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
For the cheese layer:
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional:
¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish
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👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the macaroni:
Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the beef mixture:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper; cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and all the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper).
Simmer for about 5–7 minutes until flavors blend.
3️⃣ Combine with pasta:
Add the cooked macaroni to the beef mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated with sauce.
4️⃣ Assemble the casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Top evenly with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
5️⃣ Bake:
Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot!