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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a Cheesy Beef and Mac Casserole. This hearty dish combines tender elbow macaroni with savory ground beef, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s the kind of meal that evokes nostalgia and brings families together around the dinner table, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, and busy weeknight meals.

Cheesy Beef and Mac Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Beef and Mac Casserole. This delightful dish pairs tender elbow macaroni with savory ground beef in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it embraces nostalgia while offering versatility to cater to dietary needs. Easy to make, this casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Enjoy every flavorful bite and make it a staple in your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 cups elbow macaroni

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup whole milk

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for added crunch)

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente consistency (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.

    Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing its wonderful aroma.

      Brown the Beef: Incorporate the ground beef into the skillet, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it appropriately to keep the dish lighter.

        Combine Ingredients: To the beef mixture, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), cream of mushroom soup, whole milk, Worcestershire sauce, and the dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, which will help meld all the flavors together beautifully.

          Assemble the Casserole: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the beef mixture, ensuring everything is evenly mixed. Fold in 1.5 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until well incorporated.

            Transfer to Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish generously, then pour the macaroni and beef mixture into the dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheddar cheese on top. If desired, add breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.

              Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

                Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Enjoy your delightful Cheesy Beef and Mac Casserole!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8