There’s something so heartwarming about a cheesy, beefy pasta dinner that’s been simmering all day, filling the kitchen with cozy, savory aromas. This Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef & Macaroni Casserole brings together tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce — all topped with melted cheddar. It’s one of those easy, set-it-and-forget-it meals that make busy evenings so much smoother and everyone at the table happy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a touch of warmth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion softens. Drain off any excess grease.
Combine in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato soup, 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese, uncooked macaroni, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Cook Low and Slow:
Cover and cook on low for about 4 to 5 hours, until the macaroni is tender and has absorbed the rich sauce.
Add the Cheesy Finish:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serve & Enjoy:
Spoon generous portions into bowls while it’s hot, and serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side for a full, comforting meal.