Description

This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta, and layers of rich, cheesy goodness for a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With a flavorful meat sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted cheddar, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup cottage cheese

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix cooked elbow macaroni, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well combined.
6. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the macaroni mixture, half of the meat sauce, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat layers.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For added texture and flavor, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before the final 10 minutes of baking. You can also substitute ground turkey for the beef or add in extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a healthier twist.

Conclusion:
This Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, savory beef, and layers of creamy cheese for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy at home, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with a simple green salad or garlic bread, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy-to-make classic!