For the Hearty Casserole Base:

• 1 Pound Ground Beef: The star of our casserole, ground beef provides the savory, meaty foundation that makes this dish so satisfying. Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce excess fat without sacrificing flavor. Lean ground beef cooks up nicely and adds a rich, robust taste that perfectly complements the cheesy macaroni. For a richer, more intense beef flavor, consider using ground sirloin. If you prefer a less beefy flavor, you can use a ground beef blend with a higher fat content, but be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning. For a vegetarian or vegan option, you can substitute with plant-based ground beef alternatives, ensuring they are browned and seasoned similarly to ground beef for optimal flavor and texture.
• 1 Medium Onion, Chopped: Onion is an aromatic powerhouse that adds depth and complexity to the casserole’s flavor profile. When sautéed with the ground beef, it releases its sweet and savory notes, creating a flavorful base for the entire dish. Yellow onions are a classic choice for casseroles due to their mild and versatile flavor. White onions can also be used for a slightly sharper taste. For a sweeter and milder flavor, you could even use Vidalia or sweet onions. Make sure to chop the onion into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the casserole.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic that elevates the casserole’s savory notes. Minced garlic adds a pungent and slightly spicy flavor that complements the ground beef and tomato sauce beautifully. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for the most intense flavor. If using pre-minced garlic from a jar, be mindful that its flavor may be less potent. For a milder garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic or garlic powder, but fresh garlic truly provides the best depth of flavor.
• 1 (28 Ounce) Can Crushed Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes form the flavorful and slightly tangy tomato base of our casserole. They provide moisture, acidity, and a rich tomato flavor that ties all the ingredients together. Using high-quality crushed tomatoes will significantly enhance the overall taste. Look for canned tomatoes labeled “no salt added” to control the sodium content of your casserole. For a chunkier texture, you can use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use tomato puree or tomato sauce, adjusting the liquid content as needed.
• 1 (15 Ounce) Can Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce further enhances the tomato flavor and adds a smoother consistency to the casserole sauce. It works in tandem with the crushed tomatoes to create a rich and flavorful tomato base. Similar to crushed tomatoes, opt for “no salt added” tomato sauce to control sodium levels. You can use seasoned tomato sauce for a slightly more complex flavor, but be mindful of the added seasonings and sodium content. For a richer tomato flavor, consider using tomato paste in addition to tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes.
• 1 Cup Beef Broth: Beef broth adds moisture and depth of flavor to the casserole, creating a savory sauce that coats the macaroni and ground beef. Using beef broth enhances the overall beefy flavor of the dish. Low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control sodium content. You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a slightly different flavor profile. For a richer and more intense beef flavor, you can use homemade beef broth or beef bouillon cubes dissolved in water.
• 1 Teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It adds a classic Italian flavor profile to the casserole, complementing the tomato sauce and ground beef. Using high-quality Italian seasoning will make a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor. You can also create your own Italian seasoning blend using individual dried herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. If you prefer fresh herbs, you can use a tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano, basil, and parsley instead of dried Italian seasoning, adding them towards the end of cooking to preserve their fresh flavor.
• ½ Teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients in the casserole. It balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and brings out the savory notes of the beef and seasonings. Use table salt or fine sea salt for even distribution. Adjust the amount of salt to your taste, keeping in mind that canned tomatoes and broth may already contain some sodium.
• ¼ Teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements the other seasonings and enhances the overall flavor of the casserole. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for the most intense flavor. Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference, adding more for a spicier casserole.

For the Cheesy Macaroni Component:

• 8 Ounces Elbow Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is the classic pasta shape for macaroni and cheese and casseroles. Its curved shape holds the cheesy sauce beautifully and provides a satisfyingly chewy texture. Use high-quality elbow macaroni for the best results. You can substitute with other small pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or rotini if you prefer, but elbow macaroni is the traditional and most recognizable choice. For a whole wheat option, you can use whole wheat elbow macaroni for added fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor. Gluten-free elbow macaroni is also available for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
• 4 Cups Milk: Milk forms the creamy base of the cheese sauce, creating a rich and luscious texture that coats the macaroni and other ingredients. Whole milk will provide the richest and creamiest sauce. 2% milk or 1% milk can be used for a slightly lighter sauce. For a dairy-free option, you can use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, but be aware that plant-based milks may result in a slightly less creamy sauce. Evaporated milk or half-and-half can also be used for an even richer and creamier cheese sauce, but they will increase the fat content.
• ½ Cup (1 Stick) Butter: Butter adds richness, flavor, and a velvety texture to the cheese sauce. It also helps to create a smooth and emulsified sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt content of the cheese sauce. For a dairy-free option, you can use vegan butter substitutes, ensuring they are designed for cooking and melting well. Butter contributes significantly to the classic flavor and texture of macaroni and cheese, but it can be reduced or substituted to lighten the recipe if desired.
• ½ Cup All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is used as a thickening agent in the cheese sauce, creating a roux (butter and flour mixture) that helps to thicken the milk and create a creamy consistency. Using all-purpose flour ensures a smooth and stable cheese sauce that doesn’t separate or become grainy. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends or cornstarch as a thickening agent, but be sure to adjust the cooking method accordingly. The flour is crucial for creating the classic creamy texture of macaroni and cheese, but it can be reduced or substituted for lighter versions.
• 4 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese is the star of the cheese sauce, providing a sharp, tangy, and cheesy flavor that is quintessential to macaroni and cheese. Using high-quality cheddar cheese will make a significant difference in the overall taste. Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice for macaroni and cheese due to its bold flavor. Mild cheddar cheese can be used for a milder flavor profile. You can also use a blend of cheddar cheeses for a more complex flavor. Pre-shredded cheddar cheese is convenient, but freshly grated cheddar cheese will melt more smoothly and have a better texture. For a sharper cheddar flavor, consider using extra sharp cheddar cheese. Experiment with different types of cheddar cheese to find your favorite flavor combination for your macaroni and cheese casserole.