Hearty macaroni casserole is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender pasta, savory meat and rich, cheesy sauce in one satisfying dish. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family meal or gathering with friends, offering layers of flavor in every bite. The combination of ground beef or turkey, marinara sauce and a blend of melting cheeses creates hearty filling that¡¯s complemented by the soft, baked macaroni. It¡¯s a dish that¡¯s easy to make in advance and even better when reheated, making it a perfect choice for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with a side salad, this macaroni casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
INGREDIENTS
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2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape)
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375¡ãF (190¡ãC). Cook the macaroni, according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain, and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Meat
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until brown and fully cooked. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Prepare sauce
Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Adjust seasoning, as needed.
4. Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Add 1 cup mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Stir until well-combined, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
5. Bake the Casserole
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9 x 13 baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. Cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling, and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve
Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven, and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
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This hearty macaroni casserole is perfect for a filling dinner the whole family will love. With its combination of comforting pasta, savory sauce and cheesy topping, it¡¯s sure to be a crowd pleaser every time!
