Macaroni And Cheese With Beef
A hearty and cheesy pasta dish with seasoned ground beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheddar, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 12-inch skillet, over medium heat, cook chopped onion and green pepper in hot salad oil until tender.
- Stir in ground beef and cook until browned and pan juices evaporate.
- Spoon off any excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce and 3/4 cup water, then heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes to blend flavors.
- Meanwhile, cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef and sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic along with the onions and peppers. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if desired. For a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese or sour cream before adding the cheese on top. This dish can also be made with gluten-free pasta for those with dietary restrictions. Don't forget to check out other delicious American recipes for more ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty macaroni and cheese with beef alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, pair it with garlic bread or biscuits. It also makes a great side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. This dish is sure to be a hit, complementing other favorites like Beef Patties And Gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to keep it moist. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni And Cheese With Beef contains roughly 512 calories, with 28g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value) and protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the macaroni just before serving, then combine everything together. This will help preserve the texture of the pasta.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the beef. You can also mix in some crushed red pepper flakes along with the tomato sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).