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Cheesy Beef And Macaroni Casserole

A comforting, cheesy baked pasta layered with seasoned beef, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of gooey cheeses—this Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole is an easy, family-friendly dinner that tastes like a warm hug.
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Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base:

  • 1 pound 450 g elbow macaroni (or rotini, penne, or shells)
  • 1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Beef Mixture:

  • 1 ½ pounds 680 g ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

For the Sauce:

  • 1 24 oz / 680 g jar marinara sauce or tomato pasta sauce
  • 1 15 oz / 425 g can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ½ cup beef broth or water

For the Cheese Layers:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese optional

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped

Instructions
 

  • Boil salted water and cook macaroni until al dente, about 1–2 minutes less than the package time. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to keep it from sticking.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until softened. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  • Stir in marinara, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and sugar. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes until thick and flavorful.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine the pasta and beef sauce in a bowl. Spread half in a greased 9×13-inch dish, sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar, then dot with ricotta. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with more mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil 2–3 minutes for a crisp top if desired.
  • Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve warm with garlic bread or salad.