Cheesy Beefy Baked Macaroni Casserole
This hearty, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying beef macaroni casserole is a classic comfort dish perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Rich ground beef, tender macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce come together in a bubbly, golden-topped bake that delivers both flavor and nostalgia.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10–15 minutes
Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Ingredients:
For the pasta & beef:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or any small pasta)
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richness)
Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream (or more milk)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
Salt and pepper to taste
For topping:
½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add tomato paste if using and cook 1–2 minutes. Set aside.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in cheeses until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine:
In a large bowl or pot, mix pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce until fully combined.
Bake:
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish or oven-safe ramekins. Top with more cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and melty!
Tips
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of your sauce. Freshly shredded melts smoother.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Undercook by 1–2 minutes since it will finish cooking in the oven and absorb sauce.
Layer for Texture: If using ramekins or a baking dish, layer pasta, beef, and cheese sauce to create pockets of flavor throughout.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to help everything set and stay creamy.
Double Batch Friendly: You can double the recipe and freeze half before baking for an easy future meal.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the beef mixture or cheese sauce.
Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
Different Meats: Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even spicy Italian sausage for a twist.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for a Mediterranean flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Add a buttery breadcrumb or crushed chip topping before baking for a golden, crispy crust.
Tex-Mex Version: Mix in taco seasoning, black beans, and corn; top with pepper jack cheese.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze this?
A: Definitely. Freeze it before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–60 minutes, or until hot throughout.
Q: What pasta works best besides elbow macaroni?
A: Shells, penne, rotini, or cavatappi hold sauce well and work great in baked dishes.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
A: Use low heat when melting the cheese into the sauce and avoid overheating. Stir constantly and add cheese gradually for a smooth, creamy finish.
Q: Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per serving based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~550
Protein: ~32g
Carbohydrates: ~38g
Fat: ~32g
Saturated Fat: ~16g
Cholesterol: ~95mg
Sodium: ~600mg
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~5g
Note: Values will vary based on cheese type, portion size, and optional add-ins.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beefy Baked Macaroni Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—warm, satisfying, and full of rich, melty flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself to something cozy and delicious. With endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies and enjoy every comforting bite.