I'm thankful to my neighbor from Germany for sharing this meal—my husband enjoyed it from the very first bite!

Cooktop Cove: I'm thankful to my neighbor from Germany for sharing this meal—my husband enjoyed it from the very first bite!

By Georgia Lynn

This slow cooker cheesy beef and macaroni casserole is a dish that brings back memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners at Grandma's house. It's a hearty, comforting meal that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, all enveloped in tender elbow macaroni. This dish is a staple in many Midwestern homes, where the focus is on simple, satisfying meals that bring everyone together. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. It's perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, homemade meal.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You might also consider serving it with some crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any cheesy goodness left on the plate. For a touch of color and added nutrition, steamed green beans or roasted carrots make excellent side dishes.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole

Servings: 6

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato soup, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, elbow macaroni, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the macaroni is tender.

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variations & Tips

For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter version. For a veggie-packed casserole, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. If you like a crispy topping, transfer the casserole to a baking dish after cooking, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.