Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Tomatoes

Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this hearty and comforting Macaroni and Cheese with Ground Beef and Tomatoes. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines tender elbow macaroni, rich and creamy cheddar-Parmesan sauce, and a savory medley of seasoned ground beef, garlic-infused onions, and tangy diced tomatoes for a flavor-packed meal. A golden, bubbling finish in the oven makes this dish irresistible and perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Ready in just 45 minutes, this one-pan wonder offers a balance of cheese-covered comfort and zesty tomato goodness, with optional fresh parsley for a touch of brightness. Serve it warm and watch it disappear from plates in no time! Keywords: macaroni and cheese with ground beef, cheesy casserole, family dinner ideas, baked pasta recipe, beef and tomato pasta bake.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion
• 2 cloves garlic cloves
• 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the cooked beef and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is golden and bubbly.

Step 6

Slowly whisk in the milk, making sure to remove any lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it begins to thicken (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 7

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 8

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 9

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and ground beef mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 10

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2120.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3880.3

Total Fat 235.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 120.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.7g
Cholesterol 758.1mg	0%
Sodium 5434.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 238.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 19.5g	0%
Total Sugars 52.4g
Protein 218.8g	0%

Vitamin D 214.7IU	0%
Calcium 3361.4mg	0%
Iron 19.5mg	0%
Potassium 3278.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 53.6%

Protein: 22.2%

Carbs: 24.2%