Elbow Macaroni and Beef Casserole
Elbow macaroni and beef casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. This hearty dish combines ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the skillet and mix well, ensuring that the macaroni is evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Size and Cooking Time:
This elbow macaroni and beef casserole recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people. The estimated cooking time is around 1 hour, including preparation and baking. Serve it hot as a main dish with a side of salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!