Cheesy Macaroni and Beef Delight: A Comforting Family Favorite!

Cheesy Macaroni and Beef – Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our Cheesy Macaroni and Beef recipe. This delectable dish combines tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and a medley of spices, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s a comfort food that will win over your taste buds and steal the hearts of your loved ones. Join us on a culinary journey as we share our cherished family recipe that has become a beloved staple in our household.

Picture this: a cozy evening, laughter filling the air, and the aroma of our Cheesy Macaroni and Beef wafting through the kitchen. This recipe holds a special place in our hearts, as it has been a go-to dish that never fails to bring joy to our family gatherings. It all started when my husband took his first bite, his eyes lighting up with delight. From that moment, it became a recipe that we couldn’t get enough of. The combination of succulent beef, rich tomato sauce, and oozing cheese created a symphony of flavors that captured our hearts. Now, it’s time to share this story and recipe with you, hoping it becomes a cherished part of your family traditions too.

Why This Cheesy Macaroni and Beef Recipe?

• Indulge in a comforting blend of flavors: This recipe brings together the savory goodness of lean ground beef, the tanginess of pureed tomatoes, and the creaminess of two types of cheese.
• Perfect balance of spices: Our secret combination of black pepper, garlic, and fish sauce adds depth and richness to the dish, elevating the overall taste.
• Versatile and family-friendly: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, enjoyed by kids and adults alike. It’s a satisfying meal that can be served for lunch or dinner, bringing everyone together around the table.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, even novice cooks can create this mouthwatering masterpiece.
• Baked to perfection: The final step of baking the macaroni and beef adds a delightful golden crust, and once you see that melted cheese on top, you won’t be able to resist!

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper (or any seasoning of your choice)
• Chopped garlic (a few cloves)
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 can (14 oz.) whole tomatoes, pureed in the can with a hand blender
• 2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 box (16 oz.) macaroni
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

Directions:

Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Incorporate the lean ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed onions. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Season with another pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper (or your preferred seasoning), chopped garlic, and fish sauce. Stir well to combine.

Pour the pureed whole tomatoes into the skillet with the beef mixture. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.

In a separate pot, cook the macaroni until it is halfway done. Drain the macaroni and add it to the simmering beef sauce. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and any additional seasoning of your choice.

Cover the skillet and allow the macaroni and beef mixture to cook on low heat until the macaroni is fully cooked and has absorbed the sauce’s flavors.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the cooked macaroni and beef into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until it is bubbling and heated through.

Remove the baking dish from the oven, carefully take off the foil, and sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beautifully golden.

Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Spoon out generous portions of this cheesy delight and savor each bite of the creamy, flavor-packed macaroni and beef.

Notes:

• Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with additional herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or paprika.
• For a healthier version, you can opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• To make the dish spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef sauce.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an equally delicious meal.

In conclusion, our Cheesy Macaroni and Beef recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings joy to every bite. With its tender ground beef, luscious tomato sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese, it’s a culinary creation that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. The blend of spices, the richness of the sauce, and the irresistible cheesiness make it a true comfort food classic.

As you savor each forkful of this cheesy delight, may it transport you to a place of comfort, nostalgia, and togetherness. Let the aroma fill your kitchen, creating an ambiance that brings loved ones closer and fosters cherished memories.

So, gather around the table, share laughter, and indulge in this mouthwatering dish that has stood the test of time in our own household. We hope our Cheesy Macaroni and Beef becomes a beloved favorite in your home as well, bringing warmth, love, and deliciousness to your family gatherings for years to come.

Remember, food has a magical way of connecting people, and this recipe is no exception. Enjoy the simple pleasures of life, and may every bite bring you comfort, happiness, and a taste of home.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella give this dish a classic flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses or a blend of different cheeses. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan can add a delightful twist.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the macaroni and beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed. This is a great time-saving option for busy days or when hosting guests.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven until heated through.

Can I substitute macaroni with a different pasta shape?

Of course! While macaroni is the classic choice, you can swap it for other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle. The cooking time may vary, so make sure to follow the instructions on the pasta package for al dente consistency.

Cheesy Macaroni and Beef

Sacrlett

This delectable dish combines tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and a medley of spices, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it's a comfort food that will win over your taste buds and steal the hearts of your loved ones.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Total preparation time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 1 large onion finely diced
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper or any seasoning of your choice
• Chopped garlic a few cloves
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 can 14 oz. whole tomatoes, pureed in the can with a hand blender
• 2 lbs. lean ground beef
• 1 box 16 oz. macaroni
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

• Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
• Incorporate the lean ground beef into the skillet with the sautéed onions. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Season with another pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper (or your preferred seasoning), chopped garlic, and fish sauce. Stir well to combine.
• Pour the pureed whole tomatoes into the skillet with the beef mixture. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• In a separate pot, cook the macaroni until it is halfway done. Drain the macaroni and add it to the simmering beef sauce. Stir well to ensure the macaroni is evenly coated in the sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and any additional seasoning of your choice.
• Cover the skillet and allow the macaroni and beef mixture to cook on low heat until the macaroni is fully cooked and has absorbed the sauce's flavors.
• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the cooked macaroni and beef into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until it is bubbling and heated through.
• Remove the baking dish from the oven, carefully take off the foil, and sprinkle the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beautifully golden.
• Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Spoon out generous portions of this cheesy delight and savor each bite of the creamy, flavor-packed macaroni and beef.

Notes

Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with additional herbs and spices such as basil, oregano, or paprika.

For a healthier version, you can opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

To make the dish spicier, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the beef sauce.

Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day for an equally delicious meal.

Keyword Cheesy Macaroni and Beef