Low Fat Classic Ground Beef Casserole

Satisfy your comfort food cravings without compromising on health with this Low Fat Classic Ground Beef Casserole! Packed with lean ground beef, hearty elbow macaroni, and a medley of flavorful ingredients like garlic, onion, green bell pepper, and aromatic herbs, this casserole is a lighter twist on a beloved family favorite. The addition of low-fat mozzarella and reduced-fat cheddar creates a gooey, cheesy topping without the extra calories, while no-salt-added diced tomatoes and tomato sauce keep it heart-healthy. Ready in just under an hour, this easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it piping hot straight from the oven for a wholesome, satisfying dinner that brings everyone back to the table. Healthy comfort food has never tasted so good!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

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

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2

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.

Step 3

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.

Step 4

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.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Combine the beef mixture with the cooked macaroni and half of the reduced-fat cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

Step 7

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.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your low-fat classic ground beef casserole!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1728.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2432.0

Total Fat 80.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 32.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 452.9mg	0%
Sodium 2938.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 216.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.6g	0%
Total Sugars 31.6g
Protein 209.4g	0%

Vitamin D 55.8IU	0%
Calcium 1479.4mg	0%
Iron 18.6mg	0%
Potassium 3141.6mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.8%

Protein: 34.5%

Carbs: 35.7%