Meat Lover's Medley Casserole Recipe

Description:

A hearty and comforting casserole brimming with a rich, chunky tomato-based meat sauce, nestled amongst tender elbow macaroni and topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The top is a golden brown, bubbling with melted cheese, and the aroma of simmered tomatoes, oregano, and basil fills the kitchen. The casserole is a deep red, flecked with the brown of the ground beef and Italian sausage. The parsley adds a bright green pop of color and freshness to the otherwise warm, rustic dish. The texture is a delightful mix of soft macaroni, tender meat, and melty cheese. It's a visually appealing and appetizing dish that invites you to dig in.

Ingredients:

• - 1 lb ground beef
• - 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• - 1 large onion, chopped
• - 2 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• - 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• - 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• - 1 teaspoon dried basil
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1 cup cooked elbow macaroni
• - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• - 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This step should take approximately 8-10 minutes.
2. 2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. 3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4. While the sauce simmers, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions. Drain well.
5. 5. In a large, greased 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni and the meat sauce. Stir to combine thoroughly.
6. 6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The top should be golden brown.
8. 8. Let the casserole stand for 5-10 minutes before sprinkling with fresh parsley and serving.