Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole Recipe

Slow Cooker Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole

Few dishes capture the heart of comfort food quite like a slow cooker cheesy beef and macaroni casserole. Warm, rich, and deeply satisfying, this recipe delivers everything we crave in a homemade meal: tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a velvety blanket of melted cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and gathers everyone around the table without hesitation.

This casserole is especially irresistible because it blends classic Midwestern flavors with modern convenience. Thanks to the slow cooker, the ingredients have time to meld together, creating layers of flavor that taste like they took all day—because they did, just without the effort. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy Sunday dinner, or a potluck crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers comfort in every bite.

Ingredients and Their Roles

1 pound ground beef – The foundation of the dish, ground beef provides rich, savory depth and hearty protein that makes this casserole filling and satisfying.
1 onion, chopped – Onion adds natural sweetness and aromatic flavor, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the overall flavor with a warm, savory punch that elevates the dish from simple to crave-worthy.
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – These add moisture, acidity, and subtle sweetness, preventing the casserole from feeling heavy.
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed tomato soup – Tomato soup creates a creamy, tangy sauce that binds the ingredients together beautifully.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar delivers bold flavor and luscious melt, making the casserole irresistibly cheesy.
2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked – Elbow macaroni is ideal for casseroles, soaking up sauce while maintaining a tender bite.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a subtle herbal note that complements the tomato-based sauce.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Basil contributes mild sweetness and classic Italian-inspired warmth.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
Transfer to slow cooker: Add the cooked beef mixture directly into the slow cooker, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Build the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), condensed tomato soup, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well so the flavors are evenly distributed.
Add pasta and cheese: Gently fold in the uncooked elbow macaroni and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in the sauce to cook evenly.
Slow cook to perfection: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible, until the macaroni is tender and the mixture is creamy.
Finish with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Serve hot: Spoon generous portions onto plates and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

This slow cooker casserole is beloved because it checks every box: easy preparation, minimal cleanup, affordable ingredients, and unbeatable comfort. It’s a recipe that feels nostalgic yet practical, making it perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned home cooks alike. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen naturally, creating a dish that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Don’t overcook: Check the pasta near the 4-hour mark to avoid mushy macaroni.
Add a kick: Red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can add subtle heat.
Extra creaminess: Stir in a splash of milk or cream during the last 30 minutes if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Complete this comforting meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every bit of cheesy sauce. For vegetables, consider steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or broccoli for added color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This slow cooker cheesy beef and macaroni casserole proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Creamy, hearty, and endlessly satisfying, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns everyday ingredients into a memorable meal. If you’re searching for an easy, delicious, and family-approved recipe, this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.