Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni is a hearty and delicious dish that everyone loves. It combines pasta, ground beef, and tasty cheese, making it a perfect comfort food. This recipe is easy to make and great for a family dinner or a potluck. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use ingredients you might already have at home.

How to Make Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 box elbow macaroni
1 cup diced onions
1 can diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 cup ketchup
1 tbsp mustard
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Garlic powder to taste

Directions:

Start by cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once done, set it aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with diced onions over medium heat. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Stir in the ketchup, mustard, and canned tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Combine the meat mixture with the cooked macaroni and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top it with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Serve Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni

Serve Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni hot from the oven. It goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.

How to Store Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for about 3 to 4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it well before eating.

Tips to Make Baked Cheddar Beef Macaroni

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Feel free to add some vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition.
If you want a bit of spice, try adding hot sauce or jalapeños to the meat mixture.
For a creamier texture, mix in some sour cream or cream cheese.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique flavor. Another variation is to use different types of pasta, such as penne or shells, instead of elbow macaroni.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe good for kids?
Absolutely! It is simple and packed with flavors that kids usually enjoy. It’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free elbow pasta works well in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.