Description
A comforting and easy-to-make casserole with layers of tender beef, creamy sauce, and a rich flavor that simmers to perfection in your Crock Pot. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the Crock Pot and add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add the uncooked macaroni to the Crock Pot, stirring it into the beef mixture.
- Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 4–6 hours or until the macaroni is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- If you want a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced green chilies to the mixture.
- Feel free to swap out elbow macaroni for another pasta shape, such as penne or rotini.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat in the Crock Pot or on the stove before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg