Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole Recipe

 

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef:

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
• Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
• Add the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat the pasta evenly.
• In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the macaroni and cheese mixture.
• Top with the beef and marinara sauce mixture.
• Spread the remaining macaroni and cheese mixture over the beef layer.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole!