Low Fat Classic Ground Beef Casserole
Savor the comforting flavors of this Low Fat Classic Ground Beef Casserole, a lighter twist on a timeless dinner favorite. This hearty, wholesome dish features lean ground beef, vibrant green bell peppers, and protein-packed elbow macaroni, all brought together in a rich tomato sauce seasoned with aromatic oregano and basil. Finished with a layer of melted reduced-fat cheddar and mozzarella cheese, this casserole delivers indulgent taste without the extra calories. It's easy to prepare with just 15 minutes of prep time and is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its nutrient-rich ingredients and simple steps, this low-fat casserole balances healthy eating with classic comfort food.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef (95% lean)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes, no-salt-added
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is soft.
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add the green bell pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Meanwhile, boil the macaroni according to package instructions, but undercook by 1-2 minutes, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Combine the beef mixture with the cooked macaroni and half of the reduced-fat cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining reduced-fat cheddar cheese and the low-fat mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your low-fat classic ground beef casserole!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2432 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 80.2 g | 103% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.7 g | 164% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 453 mg | 151% | |
| Sodium | 2938 mg | 128% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 216.7 g | 79% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.6 g | 66% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.6 g | ||
| Protein | 209.4 g | 419% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 1479 mg | 114% | |
| Iron | 18.6 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 3142 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
