1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and cooked macaroni to the skillet. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Transfer the beef and macaroni mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting casserole!

Reheating and Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: For reheating, microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! Feel free to use any small pasta like penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef? Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Yes! Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the beef mixture for some heat.
6. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend can all work well in this casserole.
7. How can I make this casserole gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the tomato products and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes! Dice up fresh tomatoes and add them to the dish, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
9. Do I need to cook the macaroni before adding it to the casserole? Yes, cook the macaroni according to the package directions before adding it to the casserole.
10. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then layer the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
11. How do I keep the cheese from becoming too hard when baking? Cover the casserole with foil for the first 10-15 minutes of baking to ensure the cheese melts evenly.
12. Can I add cream or milk for a creamier texture? Yes, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream or milk when combining the beef and macaroni to create a creamy texture.
13. Can I freeze the casserole after baking? Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
14. Is this casserole spicy? The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili powder or hot sauce for heat.
15. How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
16. Can I use canned chili instead of diced tomatoes? Yes, using canned chili can add extra flavor and make the casserole more hearty.
17. Can I skip the cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version, or substitute with dairy-free cheese.
18. Can I add bacon to the casserole? Yes, crumbled bacon can add extra flavor and crunch. Add it along with the beef mixture.
19. What side dishes go well with this casserole? Serve this casserole with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
20. How do I make the casserole more filling? To make it even heartier, add beans like kidney beans or black beans, or top it with a layer of mashed potatoes.

20 Best Tips for Making Beef and Macaroni Casserole: