If you have been searching for a cozy, satisfying meal that practically makes itself, then the Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This dish brings together hearty ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce that’s slow-cooked to perfection. It’s comfort food at its finest, bursting with cheesy goodness and aromatic herbs that fill your kitchen with a welcoming scent — all while you get to relax or focus on other things. Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a cherished staple for family dinners, busy weekdays, or any occasion that calls for a warm, delicious dinner with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to bring out rich flavors, pleasant textures, and an appealing color palette. These essentials are easy to find, making this a perfect dish to pull together without a last-minute grocery run.
- 2 lbs ground beef: Provides that savory, meaty base that makes this casserole hearty and fulfilling.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down slowly with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch of flavor, essential for balancing the tomato sauce.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, rich backdrop for the casserole.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Gives texture and a burst of freshness within the tomato base.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the beefy taste while the dish cooks.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a subtle umami tanginess that deepens the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon dried basil: Infuses the casserole with a mellow herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a slightly peppery, aromatic touch to complement the basil.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that livens up the sauce.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked: Absorbs the sauce while becoming soft and tender.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy bliss right at the end.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles layers of sharp, nutty flavor over the top.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the richness with a fresh, green garnish.
How to Make Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by warming up a large skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef gently. This step is crucial because it develops the meat’s rich flavor while cooking off excess fat. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the onion becomes soft and translucent—this subtle sweetness elevates the casserole’s flavor foundation.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Transfer your flavorful beef, onion, and garlic mixture to the Crock Pot. Pour in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure every herb and seasoning is well distributed. This mix is the heart of the Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe, promising layers of savory, tangy goodness.
Step 3: Add the Macaroni
Next, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni directly into the meat and sauce mixture. The noodles will cook slowly in the flavorful liquid, soaking up the essence of the beef and tomato base, which will make every bite irresistibly tender and tasty.
Step 4: Slow Cook Until Perfect
Cover the Crock Pot and set it on low heat. Let the casserole cook for 4 to 6 hours. Patience pays off here—this slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, the sauce to thicken, and the pasta to soften just right without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
When the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese along with half of the grated Parmesan. Pop the lid back on and let it cook for another 10 minutes so the cheese melts, turning your casserole into a bubbly, cheesy masterpiece. This final cheesy step is what really takes the dish from comforting to absolutely irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh herbal lift. The vibrant green parsley adds a lovely contrast to the warm, cheesy, and richly colored casserole beneath.
How to Serve Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can upgrade your presentation instantly. I love using fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef. A little extra grated Parmesan sprinkled right on top before serving adds a sophisticated salty edge, perfect for cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds a delightful balance of textures and nutrients. A light vinaigrette-dressed salad will brighten up the meal, while steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans provide a healthy, colorful contrast that complements the hearty casserole perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress friends or family, serve the casserole in individual ramekins straight from the Crock Pot. Top each portion with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a tiny sprig of parsley. Alternatively, offer warm garlic bread on the side to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. The casual, rustic look of this dish makes it perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Before you put it away, let it cool to room temperature so condensation doesn’t make the dish soggy.
Freezing
This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room at the top as the liquids expand. Frozen, it can last up to 3 months without sacrificing texture or taste. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, the oven is your friend. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, then warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—usually around 20 to 30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway to ensure even warmth. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top afterward for a fresh melted finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in the Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work just as well. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta doesn’t overcook.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding it to the Crock Pot?
Yes, browning the beef first is highly recommended because it develops flavor and reduces excess fat. It also helps to avoid a greasy casserole and gives the beef a richer texture.
Can I prepare this casserole without Worcestershire sauce?
You can omit the Worcestershire sauce if necessary; however, it adds a unique umami depth that enhances the overall flavor profile. Consider substituting with a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You could swap the ground beef for a plant-based crumble or lentils and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. Keep the other ingredients the same for a hearty vegetarian version that still honors the spirit of the original dish.
What if I want the casserole to be less cheesy?
No problem! Feel free to reduce the mozzarella and Parmesan quantities or omit one type of cheese to suit your preference. You can also sprinkle cheese only on individual servings after cooking to control the amount.
Final Thoughts
The Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe is a wonderfully comforting, hands-off recipe that easily becomes a mealtime favorite. Its blend of rich beef, tender pasta, and melty cheese delivers warmth and satisfaction every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself after a busy day, this casserole will wrap you in cozy flavors and invite smiles all around the table. Don’t wait to try it—you might just find yourself making this classic over and over again!
Print
Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Angel Beef Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring ground beef simmered with tomato sauce, herbs, and uncooked elbow macaroni cooked slowly in a crock pot until tender. Topped with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight meal with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce Mixture
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Cheese
- 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, enhancing the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to the Crock Pot. Add tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Add Elbow Macaroni: Pour the uncooked elbow macaroni into the Crock Pot and stir it well into the beef and tomato mixture, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid for proper cooking.
- Cook Slowly: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the macaroni to become tender and the sauce to thicken, infusing all ingredients with rich flavors.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Cover again and let cook for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, creating a creamy topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and optional chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. Serve the casserole hot and enjoy the satisfying flavors of this comforting dish.
Notes
- For a faster option, you can cook the macaroni separately and add it to the Crock Pot near the end of cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add some crushed red pepper flakes when adding herbs and spices.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice color and fresh flavor garnish.
