Old-Fashioned Baked Beef & Macaroni Casserole

This comforting baked beef and macaroni casserole is a timeless family favorite. Tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella cheese come together in one hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the meat sauce until evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed green beans
• Roasted broccoli

Servings

Serves 6–8 people.