Classic Cattle Drive Casserole
This hearty Classic Cattle Drive Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners. Ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato sauce are baked with a generous topping of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Large mixing bowl
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 lean is ideal for flavor
- 1 chopped large onion
- 2 cloves, minced garlic
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni or other small pasta
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese optional, for extra cheesiness
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven, then drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet, cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for one minute more.
- Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes.
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente and drain well.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni with the beef and tomato sauce mixture, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and mozzarella (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This casserole reheats well and is great for meal prepping!