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Shipwreck Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 56 reviews

Shipwreck Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked pasta dish combining ground beef, elbow macaroni, vegetables, and a rich tomato-milk sauce. This easy one-dish meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a flavorful and hearty option that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn

Pasta and Dairy

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • 3 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Seasonings

  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Break up the beef as it cooks for even cooking.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Add 1 cup diced onion and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the browned beef, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and softened.
  4. Add Pasta and Liquids: Stir in 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni noodles, 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes, 1 cup milk, and 1 tablespoon salted butter. Mix to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Add Vegetables and Simmer: Incorporate 1 cup frozen peas and 1 cup frozen corn, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop, allowing flavors to meld and pasta to start softening.
  6. Mix in Cheese and Season: Gradually stir in 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your preference.
  7. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the skillet mixture into the prepared baking dish, then top with the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and enhance the flavors.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
  • Frozen peas and corn add sweetness and texture, but you can substitute with fresh or other vegetables.
  • For a creamier texture, you may use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when seasoning.
  • Allow the casserole to rest before serving to prevent it from falling apart when scooped.

Keywords: Shipwreck Casserole, ground beef casserole, cheesy pasta bake, baked macaroni casserole, easy weeknight dinner, one-dish meal

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/shipwreck-casserole-recipe/