Quick Description
A comforting casserole combining tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, kidney beans, and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients List
- 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Sauce & Beans
Stir in tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to combine flavors.
4. Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture
Mix cooked pasta with the beef and bean mixture in a large bowl. Stir until evenly combined.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
Let casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread
- Pair with steamed vegetables for extra fiber
- Great for meal prep—store in single-serve containers
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through
Tips & Variations
- Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the beef mixture
- Spice level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat
- Cheese variation: Use Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different flavor
- Make it creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese before baking
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~400–450
- Protein: 25–30g
- Carbs: 35–40g
- Fat: 15–18g
