Beef Macaroni Cheese Bake

This beef and macaroni bake delivers cozy satisfaction with layers of savory ground beef, tomato-soaked pasta, and melty cheese bubbling on top. It comes together with familiar ingredients yet tastes like a special homemade treat perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with loved ones.

I first threw this together for a last minute family dinner on a rainy day. Now my teenagers ask for it on repeat and it always reminds me of cozy evenings gathered around the table.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds richness and heartiness Choose lean beef for less grease
• Onion: use a fresh firm onion for gentle sweetness
• Garlic: fresh cloves give bold flavor to the sauce Avoid jarred for best taste
• Elbow or ring-shaped macaroni: traditional for classic comfort but any small pasta works
• Tomato sauce or pasta sauce: gives the dish its base Look for one without too many added sugars
• Dried oregano and dried basil: these herbs lift up the tomato Try to use high quality dried herbs for best fragrance
• Salt and pepper: season carefully with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper for fullest flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully and gives stretch Grate yourself for best texture
• Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp salty tang Buy a block and grate for freshness
• Olive oil: brings everything together Use extra virgin for best taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish: optional but adds a burst of color and brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and salt it generously Drop in the macaroni and cook until al dente about eight minutes Stir occasionally to prevent sticking Drain well and set aside This ensures your pasta holds up in the oven without turning mushy

Sauté the Beef and Aromatics:

Set a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil Add chopped onion and stir frequently for about two to three minutes until starting to soften Toss in minced garlic and stir for half a minute until fragrant Add ground beef and break it into crumbles Cook until browned throughout Let the juices evaporate so the flavor concentrates Drain excess fat for a lighter bake

Build the Sauce:

Add tomato sauce into your skillet Stir in oregano basil salt and pepper Thoroughly mix so beef and aromatics are coated Reduce the heat and simmer about five minutes so everything melds together

Combine Pasta and Beef:

Tip your drained pasta into the skillet and stir gently ensuring every piece is covered in saucy beef This blend is the soul of your bake

Layer the Bake:

Spoon half of the pasta beef mixture into your prepared baking dish Sprinkle evenly with half of your mozzarella Pour over the rest and finish with remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan You want even layers so every bite has cheese and sauce

Bake to Bubbly Perfection:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven Bake uncovered for twenty to twenty five minutes Cheese should melt to bubbling golden and the edges may crisp slightly Let cool a few minutes to set

Garnish and Serve:

Scatter freshly chopped parsley if using Slice generous scoops and serve while hot and creamy

Save

My favorite part is the way mozzarella stretches and bubbles over the top My youngest always gets the first gooey spoonful and insists on extra Parmesan for that salty bite

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven covered so the cheese stays creamy If making ahead assemble the casserole skip baking until ready to serve

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken easily replaces beef for a lighter bake You can use gluten free or whole grain pasta as needed For cheese lovers try swapping in extra cheddar or Monterey Jack Just remember to balance strong cheeses with milder mozzarella for meltiness

Serving Suggestions

This bake shines as a meal on its own but is even better with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side Sometimes I add garlic bread to soak up any extra tomato sauce For a fun family twist offer little bowls of toppings like fresh basil red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan

Cultural Context

Baked pasta casseroles like this share roots with Italian American home cooking and have been family menu staples for generations The combination of tomato beef and cheese brings the warmth of a Sunday supper to the simplest weeknight meal

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta works best for this bake?

Elbow or ring-shaped macaroni are ideal for holding the sauce and blending with the beef and cheese layers.

→ Can a different cheese be used instead of mozzarella?

Yes, cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses can be substituted for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the macaroni just until al dente since it finishes in the oven and absorbs some sauce.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What sides go well with this bake?

Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.