Description
Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Casserole combines al dente elbow macaroni, seasoned smoked beef, tomato‑grape juice sauce, and a rich layer of shredded cheddar. This baked comfort dish delivers creamy cheese, savory beef, and a hearty pasta base in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under an hour, it serves six, offering a satisfying, family‑friendly meal that’s both quick and delicious. Serve it hot, topped with extra cheese, and pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup grape juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook macaroni until al dente, drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet, add ground beef and brown, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato sauce, grape juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; simmer 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked macaroni with beef mixture in a large bowl.
- Transfer half to a greased baking dish, sprinkle half the cheese, add remaining mixture, top with remaining cheese.
- Bake 25‑30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- For a spicier version
- add crushed red pepper flakes. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for two months. Nutrition is approximate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
Keywords: Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Casserole, easy beef casserole, cheesy macaroni recipe, comfort food dinner, quick beef pasta, family dinner ideas, baked macaroni and cheese, one pot beef dinner