Cheesy Beef Macaroni Bake
A delightful combination of comforting flavors and textures, this Cheesy Beef Macaroni Bake features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a savory beefy sauce, topped with a luscious layer of melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked) These tiny, curved pasta pieces are perfect for holding onto the cheesy and meaty sauce.
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) A juicy and flavorful beef base adds hearty protein to the dish.
- 1 cup onion (diced) The aromatic sweetness of fresh onion adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 cups tomato sauce Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet; provides a lovely base for the macaroni.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle hint of garlic.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A fragrant mix of herbs intensifies the flavor of the beef.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for enhancing the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a lovely kick to the overall flavor.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded) Lends a creamy and sharp essence.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded) Adds stretchy cheese goodness.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated) The perfect finishing touch.
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, add tomato sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Bake
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained elbow macaroni with the meat sauce. Stir in half of the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the top of the pasta bake and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
To enhance your dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. For a twist, use different types of cheese or ground turkey.