Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole
A hearty one-pot comfort meal that transforms simple ground beef and macaroni into a creamy, cheese-laden casserole. The slow cooker does all the work, melding Italian seasonings with crushed tomatoes and tender beef in a rich milk and broth base. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, this satisfying dish delivers the nostalgic flavors of hamburger helper with the convenience of hands-off cooking. The pasta cooks directly in the sauce during the final 15 minutes, absorbing all the savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups milk
- 2 cups beef broth
- 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3 cups dry macaroni, uncookedpenne pasta1:1shape
Similar cook time and sauce holding ability
Instructions
- 1
Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned
- 2
Transfer browned beef to a 6-quart slow cooker
- 3
Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, tomatoes, milk and broth to slow cooker and stir to combine
- 4
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
- 5
Stir in uncooked pasta 15 minutes before serving
- 6
Cover and cook for 15 minutes until pasta reaches desired tenderness
- 7
Stir in cheese until melted
- 8
Serve immediately
Tips
Don't worry if the mixture looks watery when you add the pasta - it will absorb the liquid as it cooks and thicken perfectly.
For best results, use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker to ensure everything fits comfortably and cooks evenly.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in covered containers. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Brown the beef up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Combine remaining ingredients except pasta and cheese in slow cooker insert, cover and refrigerate overnight.
Serve hot directly from the slow cooker. Pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
Common Mistakes
Don't add pasta at the beginning or it will become mushy - wait until the final 15 minutes.
Avoid lifting the lid frequently during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and cooking time.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells works well. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti as it's harder to stir in the slow cooker.
What if I don't have beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth work as substitutes. You can also use water with beef bouillon cubes for similar flavor.
How long will leftovers keep?
Properly stored leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.