Cheesy Beef Macaroni Casserole
This Cheesy Beef Macaroni Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. The creamy and cheesy macaroni pairs beautifully with seasoned ground beef and a delightful blend of flavors. It's a one-dish wonder that pleases both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole allows you to serve up a warm meal without a lot of fuss. It's a delicious way to fill hungry bellies and keep everyone smiling at the dinner table.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Mix
1 (7 1/4 ounce package)
Margarine or Butter
4 (tablespoons (for macaroni & cheese))
Milk
1/4 (cup (for macaroni & cheese))
Ground Beef
1 (lb, cooked and drained)
Chopped Onions
2 (tablespoons)
Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 (10 3/4 ounce can)
Milk
1/2 (cup (for casserole mixture))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
3
Cook the macaroni and cheese according to the package directions, using the specified margarine or butter and milk for creaminess.
4
In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef and chopped onions over medium heat until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
5
In a mixing bowl, combine the prepared macaroni and cheese, sautéed beef and onions, cream of mushroom soup, and additional milk. Stir until everything is well mixed.
6
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
7
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Beef Macaroni Casserole?
It is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal that combines macaroni and cheese with seasoned ground beef, onions, and cream of mushroom soup for a quick weeknight dinner.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 6 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The casserole should bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.
What size casserole dish is required?
You will need a 2-quart casserole dish for this recipe.
Should the ground beef be cooked before mixing it into the casserole?
Yes, you should sauté the ground beef with onions until the meat is browned and then drain any excess fat before adding it to the mixture.
What type of macaroni and cheese should I use?
The recipe calls for one 7 1/4 ounce package of Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Mix.
Do I prepare the mac and cheese box according to its own instructions first?
Yes, cook the macaroni and cheese according to the package directions using the required butter and milk before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What kind of soup is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses one 10 3/4 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup to add creaminess and flavor.
How much milk is needed for the casserole mixture?
In addition to the milk used for the mac and cheese, you will need an extra 1/2 cup of milk for the final casserole mixture.
Can I use butter or margarine for the macaroni?
You can use either 4 tablespoons of margarine or butter depending on your preference.
How long should I sauté the onions?
Sauté the chopped onions with the beef for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft.
Is it necessary to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should lightly grease the 2-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe considered kid-friendly?
Yes, its cheesy flavor and familiar ingredients make it a favorite for both children and adults.
Can I add extra seasoning to the ground beef?
While the recipe is flavorful as is, you can certainly add salt, pepper, or garlic powder to the beef while browning if desired.
Do I bake the casserole covered or uncovered?
The casserole should be baked uncovered.
How can I tell when the casserole is finished cooking?
It is done when the mixture is hot throughout and the sauce is bubbling.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be easily substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
What should I do after taking the casserole out of the oven?
Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 7 ingredients required for this dish.
Can I use frozen chopped onions?
Yes, 2 tablespoons of frozen chopped onions can be used in place of fresh onions.
Does this recipe contain fiber information?
The nutritional data for fiber is currently not provided for this specific recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The tags include casserole, beef, macaroni, cheesy, comfort food, one-dish meal, and kid-friendly.
Is this a good recipe for busy weeknights?
Absolutely, it uses simple ingredients and quick preparation steps specifically for busy schedules.
Can I add extra cheese to the top?
While not in the original instructions, adding a layer of shredded cheddar on top before baking is a popular variation.
What if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can be used as a substitute with similar results.
Can I use a larger package of macaroni and cheese?
The recipe is balanced for a 7 1/4 ounce package; using a larger one may require adjusting the amount of soup or milk.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the mixture in the dish, refrigerate it, and bake it later, though you may need to add a few minutes to the bake time.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is it necessary to drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, draining the fat prevents the casserole from becoming overly greasy.